The man who led the Dunedin Study for years, Professor Richie Poulton, is being remembered for his major contribution to science and policy

He's died of cancer aged 61.

Otago University says the results of the study, which has been running since 1972, have contributed to science all over the world.

Former New Zealand Chief Science Advisor Sir Peter Gluckman says Poulton was a scholar an advisor, and a visionary --whose work will resonate with generations to come.

He says he's lost a close friend and collaborator, but New Zealand has lost an intellectual giant.