Genomics Aotearoa

A long read, and a tricky jigsaw puzzle

Genomics Aotearoa • Apr 05, 2019

• DNA sequencing,
• genome sequencing,
• long read

Peter Dearden Sequencing is an essential part of creating a genome, be it human, stick insect, kākāpō or sheep (all genomes Genomics Aotearoa is currently working on). But what is sequencing, how does it work, and why does it take so long?  And why does it matter to us? Sequencing is a laboratory process where segments of DNA base pairs … Read More

Why it’s important to have Māori-led capacity in genomics research

Genomics Aotearoa • Mar 06, 2019

• genomics,
• Māori,
• SING Aotearoa

Dr Phillip Wilcox Genomics research is an emerging frontier that will mean applications such as personalised medicine being developed for New Zealand-specific problems, and something that will see an increasing focus on the needs of Māori populations. However, Māori are significantly under-represented in genomic sciences. One successful way of building capability to improve understanding of … Read More

A random bioinformatics career walk … and how Genomics Aotearoa is helping researchers be a little less scared of the “command line”

Genomics Aotearoa • Jan 30, 2019

• bioinformatics,
• Science careers

Dr Alana Alexander A “random walk” is a mathsy term for a path strung together with a bunch of random steps (not unlike trying to walk my stubborn St. Bernard cross on a leash). Despite being a bioinformatician (which folks often think means “also a maths wiz”), my maths is (unfortunately) not great. Therefore, I mention random walks not because … Read More

How does epigenetics fit in?

Genomics Aotearoa • Dec 14, 2018

• Environment,
• epigenetics,
• genome,
• predictive medicine

Greg Jones The study of epigenetics could well be a key tool in transforming valuable genomic information into useful health outcomes for New Zealanders. But what is epigenetics and why is it important? Epigenetics is the influence of genetic susceptibility combined with the complex interactions of each individual’s environment over their lifetime. An individual’s epigenome is a dynamic personalised profile … Read More

What and why is Genomics Aotearoa?

Peter Dearden • Nov 02, 2018

• DNA,
• genomics,
• Otago

This is the first posting of a blog provided by members of the newly formed New Zealand research organisation; Genomics Aotearoa (GA). GA is an MBIE platform to improve the use of genomics and bioinformatics in New Zealand, and part of what we do it talking about what might be able to be achieved with these sciences. Why should you … Read More

Lab in a Box is on the road

Peter Dearden • Nov 11, 2015

• blowing things up,
• curious minds,
• science engagement

Peter K Dearden Hi folks, the current radio silence on this blog is due to Lab in a Box, our mobile science lab,taking all our time,. I thought I should update you on what is going on ! Lab in a Box is on the road and we are so very proud of our Big Blue Box.   … Read More

Taonga Genomes

Peter Dearden • Jul 26, 2015

• genome sequencing,
• genomics,
• kiwi genome,
• New Zealand,
• taonga

The sequencing of the Kiwi genome by scientists outside New Zealand is a call to action. New Zealand should be examining the genomes of species of importance to us. Let's investigate our biological heritage ourselves. Read More

Given the Finger

Peter Dearden • Jul 11, 2015

• adaption,
• denisovans,
• genome sequence,
• human evolution,
• neanderthals

Our extinct relatives still shape the way we evolve. Read More

The diabolic perception of Genetics

Peter Dearden • Jul 08, 2015

• Artificial selection,
• genetic modification,
• sheep

Genetics is a powerful tool that has transformed the animals and plants around us. How much more useful could it be if we used all our abilities? … Read More

Lab in a Box

Peter Dearden • Jun 16, 2015

• mobile lab,
• schools,
• science communication,
• science education

Announcing the birth of Lab-in-a-Box. Now updated with new images! … Read More