A scientist and three prime ministers – the inside story.

Responding to the terrorist attack on a Christchurch mosque and a global pandemic, the volcanic eruption at Whakaari/White Island and the occupation of Parliament grounds, for six years Dame Juliet Gerrard stood next to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her successors to provide the insights that science might bring to decisions on issues of public importance.

Sometimes these were emergencies: How fast will Covid spread? How many people are likely to die under different policies? Will the mosque terrorist produce copycats? And sometimes they were longer-term issues: What does the science say about cannabis? Should we worry about 5G or genetic engineering? Will it be easy or hard to get rid of plastic bags? Through case studies like these, Gerrard reflects on the realities of providing evidence to inform policy in the political arena – unpacking the tensions and drawing out general principles.

For anyone interested in evidence and public policy, Front Row Seat is a readable insider account of how science can (and can’t) help us solve big public issues.

Author

Dame Juliet A. Gerrard DNZM, HonFRSC, FRSNZ, trained at Oxford and moved to New Zealand in 1993. She is the author of over 175 publications, including three books, and is currently a professor in biological and chemical sciences at the University of Auckland. From 2018–2024, she served as the Chief Science Advisor to three Prime Ministers (Jacinda Ardern, Chris Hipkins, and Christopher Luxon).

Endorsements

‘This vast collection of case studies and first-hand experience shows that the power of science and evidence is not only found in a lab, or behind a university lectern, but has a central role to play in politics, business, community work, or any other field that calls for problem solving. It also brings you inside the mind of one of New Zealand’s most intelligent, committed, and thoughtful scientists.’ — Dame Jacinda Ardern, from the Foreword

‘Juliet Gerrard’s Front Row Seat offers a comprehensive look at what was a very challenging period for New Zealand, one in which science advice played a crucial role. It is to Gerrard’s credit that the more exceptional events (a terrorist attack, an eruption, a pandemic) don’t dominate the book. Indeed, she offers a wide range of case studies, and in doing so, traverses almost all the terrain a science advisor could be expected to encounter. I found the text very readable . . . Gerrard’s warmth and sense of humour also come through strongly.’ — Professor Shaun Hendy

‘For six momentous years, Dame Juliet Gerrard provided a vital bridge, linking the worlds of science and policy at the highest levels of government. Drawing on this unique experience, together with her deep scientific expertise and practical wisdom, Front Row Seat explores the challenge of harnessing robust evidence to improve decision-making and protect the public interest. In this disturbing era of populist mantras, industrial-scale misinformation, and post-truth politics, her book provides a sober, perceptive, inspiring, and highly accessible corrective.’ — Professor Jonathan Boston

‘Front Row Seat is a masterclass in the practical application of evidence-based policymaking, bridging the gap between academia and the high-stakes reality of governance. Dame Juliet Gerrard offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how science navigates the world of politics. Part memoir and part manual, this book is an essential resource for leaders, researchers, and anyone looking to understand how science advice can help solve the most varied and complex challenges of our time. It is a timely reminder that the most effective decisions in science diplomacy are not made in isolation but are built on a foundation of rigorous evidence and collaborative expertise.’ — Dr Jan Lüdert