Francis Collins

Francis Collins is a Professor of Geography at the University of Waikato and the current Director of the National Institute of Demographic and Economic Analysis (2018-2021). 

His research focuses on international migration and cities with a particular emphasis on the experiences, mobility patterns and government regulation of temporary migrants. Prior to his current position, Francis was a  Senior Lecturer and Rutherford Discovery Fellow at the University of Auckland. Between 2007 and 2011 he was based at the National University of Singapore.

He has undertaken research in New Zealand and throughout East Asia with a particular focus on South Korea. Francis currently leads a programme of research funded by the Royal Society of New Zealand exploring the lives of people on temporary work visas in New Zealand, the migration of New Zealanders to Australia and shifting approaches to migration in a context of increased temporariness and circulation.

He has written over 50 articles and chapters in international academic journals and books and has appeared as a contributor and commentator on migration issues in New Zealand news media.