OUR PURPOSE
A pathway for emerging Pacific researchers
Pacific Futures is the collective voice and action body for young and emerging scholars across the Pacific, established within the Pacific Academy of Sciences.
We provide a pathway to mentor and support early and mid career researchers dedicated to addressing the complex challenges and opportunities of the Pacific region.
SCOPE OF WORK
Six areas of work
01
Strategic leadership and planning
Developing, implementing and reviewing the Pacific Futures Strategic Plan and Annual Costed Workplan, aligned with the priorities of the Academy.
02
Research, knowledge mobilisation and policy impact
Promoting Pacific led research and translating evidence into policy dialogue, public engagement and community impact.
03
Leadership development and capacity building
Mentorship, peer learning and training that grows the leadership capability of emerging Pacific researchers.
04
Collaboration, partnerships and regional engagement
Building partnerships with universities, research institutes, community organisations and regional bodies across the Pacific.
05
Outreach, communication and visibility
Raising the visibility of Pacific scholarship through science communication, public engagement and our members’ achievements.
06
Governance and accountability
Reporting on progress, monitoring deliverables, and advising the Academy Council on matters affecting emerging researchers.
HOW WE WORK
Guiding principles
Pacific Futures operates in accordance with the values and principles of the Pacific Academy of Sciences.
Respect for Pacific cultures, languages, values and knowledge systems
Integrity, transparency and accountability
Inclusivity and diversity across the Pacific region
Collaboration, reciprocity and collective leadership
Service to Pacific peoples and communities
Intergenerational mentorship and stewardship
Scientific excellence alongside cultural responsibility
PLANNING AND ACCOUNTABILITY
How the work cycles
Our priorities are planned, delivered, reported and reviewed on a repeating cycle, so what we learn in one year shapes the next.
1
Strategic Plan
A multi-year plan aligned with the vision and priorities of the Academy.
2
Annual Costed Workplan
Priorities, activities, resourcing and responsibilities set for the year.
3
Deliver
Programmes, events, partnerships and capacity building across the region.
4
Report
Regular updates to the PAS Council on progress, outcomes and impact.
GOVERNANCE
How we are governed
Pacific Futures operates under the strategic oversight of the Pacific Academy of Sciences Council, with delegated responsibility for delivering its approved priorities and annual activities.
The Chair is elected by the Reference Group and generally serves a two year term. Members are appointed for two years, balanced across Polynesia, Melanesia, Micronesia and the wider Pacific diaspora.
DOCUMENTS
Terms of Reference
Read the full Terms of Reference, along with our strategic plans, policy, statements and reports, in the document library.






