Genomics Aotearoa postdoctoral fellow Basharat Bhat will be an important part of the push to expose researchers to bioinformatics practice and build capability in New Zealand. Basharat is working with Prof.
Dr Joseph Guhlin is hoping his IT background will play a part in expanding the science of genomics into new frontiers, furthering biological research of important New Zealand species.
Analysing the genomes from bacteria species helps us to understand their evolution, and that in turn allows us to find innovative ways to use them in our health, conservation and agricultural sectors.
New tools and techniques to map the stick insect genome will not only put New Zealand genomics research on the international map, but could ultimately help to protect our natural environment.
Providing personalised treatment for diseases like cancer is no easy task, but Dr Wook Ahn says genomic-based health care is becoming more mainstream in the UK.
Building bioinformatics capability is absolutely crucial if New Zealand is to make full use of genomics research to improve health, conservation and economic wellbeing.