Overview
Genetics is a rapidly progressing science, a central theme of modern biology, and a critical component of most biological research. With a high demand for genetics graduates within New Zealand and overseas, a degree in this groundbreaking yet practical discipline will provide you with many career options.
The genetics programme at the University of Otago has the benefit of being taught on an interdepartmental basis, with input from 7 departments across the University:
- Department of Anatomy
- Department of Biochemistry
- Department of Botany
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology
- Department of Pathology
- Department of Women's and Children's Health
- Department of Zoology
This structure allows staff and students to share ideas across a far broader sphere than would be possible in a single department. It enables us to draw upon cutting-edge research University-wide.
A further benefit is that we can cover all aspects of modern genetics in our teaching programme.
For any inquiries regarding your current or future studies in genetics, please contact:
Director of the Genetics Teaching Programme, Professor Iain Lamont on: iain.lamont@otago.ac.nz +64 3 479 7869
Senior Teaching Fellow, Dr Gillian MacKay on: gillian.mackay@otago.ac.nz +64 3 479 7937
Undergraduate study
You can major or minor in genetics as part of a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree.
The Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBiomedSc) and Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) degrees can also feature strong genetics content.
Undergraduate study in genetics
Postgraduate study
We offer 5 postgraduate qualifications in genetics, ranging from a 1-year Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad) to a multi-year Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Postgraduate study in genetics
Papers
Our 13 genetics papers range from 200- to 400-level, and cover such diverse topics as evolutionary genetics and the genetic analysis of eukaryotes.
Papers in genetics at the University of Otago
Scholarships and research opportunities
The University of Otago offers a limited number of scholarships for masters' and PhD students, including those studying with Genetics Otago.
Genetics Otago also has funded research opportunities for postgraduate students.
Postgraduate scholarships and research opportunities
Student profiles
Recent graduates Cameron Craigie and Hayden Selvadurai discuss studying genetics at Otago, and research and career opportunities following graduation.
Careers
A qualification from Genetics Otago can open doors to careers involving research and non-research options around the world.
Contact us
For any enquiries about our teaching programmes and study options, please contact Professor Iain Lamont or Dr Gillian Mackay:
Professor Iain Lamont
Director, Genetics Teaching Programme
Tel 64 3 479 7867
Email iain.lamont@otago.ac.nz
Dr Gillian Mackay
Genetics Teaching Fellow
Tel 64 3 479 7937
Email gillian.mackay@otago.ac.nz
