Research Culture
At Parvis, research is not confined to the postgraduate level. We adhere to the model of “Research-Led Teaching,” meaning that even our undergraduate and high school curricula are informed by the latest inquiries being conducted by our faculty. Our research output is modest in volume but significant in impact, focusing on niche intersections where larger universities often fear to tread.
Key Research Centres
1. The Centre for Algorithmic Harmony (CAH)
Director: Dr. Alistair Vance This interdisciplinary lab investigates the mathematical underpinnings of aesthetics.
- Current Project: “Stochastic Bach” — An attempt to use machine learning models to complete unfinished works of the Baroque era, not by imitation, but by analysing the statistical probability of counterpoint progression.
- Impact: This research has implications for copyright law in AI-generated art and the psychology of music perception.
2. The Wellington Institute of Behavioural Finance
Lead Researcher: Prof. Sarah Jenkins Located just streets away from the NZ Stock Exchange, this institute focuses on the irrational.
- Focus: Unlike traditional economics which assumes rational actors, we study panic, herd mentality, and the “FOMO” (Fear Of Missing Out) effect in cryptocurrency markets.
- Student Involvement: Third-year BCom students actively participate in data collection and sentiment analysis of social media trends affecting local markets.
3. The Sonic Ecology Group
Coordinator: Tama Ropata A fusion of environmental science and sound engineering.
- Project: Mapping the acoustic health of the Te Aro wetlands and urban spaces. By analysing soundscapes, researchers can determine biodiversity levels and the impact of urban noise pollution on mental health.
Student Research Highlights
We encourage our students to publish.
- 2024 Highlight: A Year 13 student’s paper on “The Fibonacci Sequence in Modern Pop Structures” was featured in the New Zealand Journal of Young Theorists.
- Undergraduate Showcase: The annual ‘Inverlochy Symposium’ allows final-year students to present their capstone projects to industry leaders.