POU HERENGA WAKA/AUT RESEARCH NETWORK

About us

TTRN is a Tier 4 Research Network — AUT’s highest-level research entity — designed to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, support capability-building, and deliver research with meaningful societal, environmental and economic impact.

We work across faculties, research centres, institutes, industry and communities to address the complex challenges facing Auckland, Aotearoa and the world.

Key Foundations

  • AUT Research Entities Framework (Tier 4)
  • Te Aronui & Te Tiriti o Waitangi-aligned research practice

Our Research Areas

Smart & Sustainable Futures

Creating technologies for climate resilience, renewable energy, urban innovation and environmental wellbeing.

Human-Centred Technology Innovation

Exploring AI, digital health, biotechnology and technology that enhances human capabilities and care.

Creative & Connected Technologies

Advancing digital media, analytics, communication, connectivity and inclusive design for society.

What We Do

Empowering Collaboration and Impact

TTRN provides structure, support and opportunities to help researchers and partners work together:

  • Seed funding for new research projects
  • Workshops, hui and an annual symposium
  • Partnership development (industry, iwi, Pacific communities, government, global collaborators)
  • Capability-building, mentorship & grant support
  • Support for early-career researchers and postgraduate students

Our aim is to help AUT research create real outcomes that benefit communities and contribute to national and global innovation.

How to Get Involved

Join Our Growing Research Community

For Researchers & AUT Staff

Become a TTRN member to join research clusters, apply for seed funding, collaborate across faculties and contribute to mahi that aligns with Aotearoa’s future.

For Industry, Iwi & Community Partners

Collaborate on applied research, innovation initiatives, policy development, commercialisation or community-focused technology solutions.

For Postgraduate Students

Connect with interdisciplinary teams, attend hui, and participate in research clusters and capability programmes.

[Become a Member]   [Partner With Us]

Governance & Leadership

TTRN is guided by a Governance Group that represents AUT’s research community, including senior academic leaders, Māori and Pacific research experts, early- and mid-career researchers, PGR students, professional staff and external advisors.

Co-Chairs

  • Professor Charles Walker
  • Associate Professor Sira Yongchareon
  • Associate Professor Catherine Shi

Network Director

  • Professor Charles Walker

Contact Us

Let’s work together.

General enquiries
Email: ttrn@aut.ac.nz