Cancer vaccine researcher appointed to Otago Chair in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Thursday, 20 December 2012
The University of Otago has appointed an internationally leading expert on vaccine formulation and delivery to its Chair in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Otago announces professorial promotions
Thursday, 20 December 2012
The University of Otago has promoted 24 of its leading academics to full professorships.
Study finds the cheapest emergency food to stockpile
Friday, 14 December 2012
Storage foods for an emergency such as an earthquake that meet all daily energy requirements can cost as little as $2.22 per day according to a new study by the University of Otago, Wellington.
Shocking disparities in child obesity now exist in New Zealand
Wednesday, 12 December 2012
Public health researcher Professor Tony Blakely from the University of Otago, Wellington says the time for prevaricating about obesity is over with the release of latest child obesity figures by the Ministry of Health.
Before Skyfall: 46 years of violence in James Bond movies
Tuesday, 11 December 2012
Violent acts in James Bond films were more than twice as common in Quantum of Solace (2008) than in the original 1962 movie Dr No, University of Otago researchers have found.
Leading international speakers for Public Health Summer School
Monday, 10 December 2012
The largest and longest running Public Health Summer School in New Zealand and Australia will provide an exciting line-up of national and international speakers for three weeks next February.
Weight loss benefits of low-fat diets proven
Friday, 7 December 2012
Reducing fat intake leads to weight loss that can be maintained for at least seven years – that’s one of the clear findings of a major new review of dozens of studies by an international team that includes a University of Otago researcher.
Clinical governance in hospitals making good progress
Thursday, 6 December 2012
The largest and most complex survey of the New Zealand health workforce has just been completed showing good progress across many DHBs in the development and implementation of clinical governance by health professionals in public hospitals.
New Zealanders’ genetic diversity to be mapped
Thursday, 6 December 2012
A leading University of Otago biological anthropologist has won a prestigious two-year James Cook Research Fellowship to undertake the first-ever survey of the genetic diversity of New Zealand’s population.
Otago scientists win neurological research funding
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
Three University of Otago scientists have received nearly $300,000 of funding to support their world-class brain-related research in the latest Neurological Foundation grant round.
Otago researchers in major new study of TB and diabetes epidemics
Monday, 3 December 2012
University of Otago expertise is set to play a key role in European Commission (EC) funded research into links between infectious and non-communicable diseases – in this case tuberculosis (TB) and type 2 diabetes.
New Hocken exhibition recognises legacy of early Dunedin botanist
Wednesday, 28 November 2012
An exhibition will be launched on Friday at the University of Otago’s Hocken Library to mark the legacy to New Zealand of Scottish botanist and illustrator John Buchanan, who lived and worked during the formative years of Dunedin.
Otago study highlights how little is known about baby weaning method
Tuesday, 27 November 2012
Starting babies on solids by letting them feed themselves pieces of food is a growing trend – yet there is scarce scientific research about the practice, putting healthcare professionals in a difficult position when giving advice, new University of Otago research suggests.
University of Otago, Christchurch, staff move back into their building
Friday, 23 November 2012
The first group of staff from the University of Otago, Christchurch (UOC) will move back into their building after 21 months in temporary premises.
Study shows the reality for “vital” Christchurch quake responders
Friday, 23 November 2012
Front-line rescue workers in Christchurch put their own needs and those of their families to one side to play a vital role during the Christchurch earthquakes and aftershocks, early results from a study into the occupational health of 600 emergency workers shows.
National medals honour Otago researchers’ achievements
Thursday, 22 November 2012
Two leading University of Otago researchers have been recognised for their outstanding contributions by the presentation of prestigious medals at New Zealand’s annual Research Honours.
Prestigious Rutherford Fellowships won by four Otago researchers
Monday, 19 November 2012
Four top scientists at, or returning to, the University of Otago are among 10 researchers to be awarded highly sought-after Rutherford Discovery Fellowships to help them develop their research careers in New Zealand.
Otago tropical medicine expert receives prestigious award
Monday, 19 November 2012
A leading University of Otago tropical medicine researcher has received the highest honour of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.
Programme developed in Christchurch can halve rates of physical child abuse
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
University of Otago, Christchurch, study shows home visiting programme can dramatically reduce child abuse in the longer term.
Kiwis missing out on free prescription medicines entitlement
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
Many New Zealanders are not getting free prescriptions when they should and these people are likely to include our most vulnerable, new findings from an ongoing University of Otago and Victoria University study into equity in prescription medicine use suggest.
University of Otago recognises leading research centres
Monday, 12 November 2012
The University of Otago is committing more than $2.5M over the next five years to support the internationally outstanding work of its leading research centres.
Binge drinking in young people attracted to more than one gender
Monday, 12 November 2012
A report by the University of Otago, Wellington shows that many young people attracted to more than one gender tend to binge drink because they feel stigmatised and socially excluded.
Swine flu pandemic expensive for NZ
Friday, 9 November 2012
A new study estimates the total cost to the New Zealand hospital sector of the 2009 ‘swine flu’ pandemic at around $31 million.
Two Otago students gain prestigious Rhodes Scholarships
Thursday, 8 November 2012
Otago’s Louis Chambers and Edward Stace are Rhodes Scholars elect for 2013 following a selection meeting this week at Government House in Auckland.
Pilot project for Māori and Science announced
Saturday, 3 November 2012
The desire to promote Māori engagement in the country’s science industry has led to a new pilot summer internship programme, a collaborative venture between the University of Otago, Industrial Research Ltd and the Federation of Māori Authorities.
Silicone dressings reduce skin reactions following radiation for breast cancer
Thursday, 1 November 2012
Skin reactions following radiation therapy for breast cancer have been the focus of a recent clinical trial conducted by Dr Patries Herst from the Department of Radiation Therapy, University of Otago, Wellington and a team of radiation therapists in public hospitals in Dunedin, Wellington and Palmerston North and Auckland Radiation Oncology.
Prestigious Marsden Fund backs Otago’s excellent research
Thursday, 25 October 2012
University of Otago researchers have gained more than $15M in new government funding for 22 world-class research projects at the frontiers of knowledge in their fields.
University of Otago selects next Dean of Surveying
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
A leading US glaciologist has been selected as Professor and Dean of Surveying at the University of Otago.
Otago researchers map genetic code of NZ’s first settlers
Tuesday, 23 October 2012
In a landmark study, University of Otago researchers have achieved the feat of sequencing complete mitochondrial genomes for members of what was likely to be one of the first groups of Polynesians to settle New Zealand and have revealed a surprising degree of genetic variation among these pioneering voyagers.
Leading Otago academics elected as Royal Society Fellows
Wednesday, 17 October 2012
Five University of Otago academics are among the 11 top New Zealand researchers and scholars in basic and applied science and the humanities who are newly elected as Fellows of the Royal Society of New Zealand.
Sexual Health and Rugby World Cup 2011
Tuesday, 16 October 2012
A new in-depth analysis of sexual health clinic attendance and diagnoses during last year’s Rugby World Cup (RWC) reveals increased risk and harm for attendees who had sex related to this sporting event.
Serious assaults in NZ disturbingly high: Otago research
Friday, 12 October 2012
University of Otago researchers have found that serious assaults in New Zealand have been steadily rising and are now at disturbingly high levels, especially among young males, Maori and Pacific people, and those from deprived neighbourhoods.
Research undermines tobacco industry’s plain packaging claims
Wednesday, 10 October 2012
Two research studies led by University of Otago researchers have challenged tobacco companies’ claims about plain packaging. Both studies were conducted by the ASPIRE2025 research group, which includes Professors Janet Hoek and Phil Gendall working from Otago’s Department of Marketing, and Professor Richard Edwards from the University’s Department of Public Health (Wellington).
Otago appoints two new Professors of Management
Tuesday, 9 October 2012
The University of Otago has appointed two new Professors of Management whose research and teaching has a strong international focus.
Otago student gains Woolf Fisher Scholarship to Cambridge University
Tuesday, 9 October 2012
A top Otago medical student has gained a prestigious Woolf Fisher Scholarship to support Cambridge University PhD study on blood flow regulation in brain-injured patients.
NZ’s shameful alcohol injury toll put under spotlight at major conference
Friday, 5 October 2012
Around one-quarter of injury deaths in New Zealand could be prevented if alcohol use was removed from the combination of factors causing these injuries, a University of Otago researcher told the 11th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion held in Wellington this week.
Study clears up speculation about vitamin D reducing colds
Wednesday, 3 October 2012
Research into the benefits of vitamin D is a burgeoning area.
Disability high amongst non-hospitalised injury victims
Tuesday, 2 October 2012
Levels of ongoing disability amongst people injured, even when not hospitalised, has surprised a University of Otago research team.
New discovery to improve success rates of IVF
Saturday, 29 September 2012
Researchers from the University of Otago, Christchurch, are collaborating with clinicians at Fertility Associates in Christchurch to develop a test to significantly improve the success rate for in vitro fertilisations implantations.
New Otago collaboration brings oral TB vaccine for humans closer
Wednesday, 26 September 2012
Researchers in New Zealand are inching closer to the development of the first effective oral vaccine to protect against tuberculosis - a disease which still kills more people worldwide than any other bacterial disease.
Otago study reveals persistent deprivation for NZ children
Friday, 21 September 2012
A sizeable and “difficult to ignore” proportion of New Zealand children have experienced persistent low income and deprivation in recent years, according to a new University of Otago study using seven years of longitudinal survey data.
More govt responsibility needed in making schools ‘sun-smarter’
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Central government needs to take more responsibility for ensuring that New Zealand children are sun-safe while at school, according to University of Otago researchers.
Otago literary detective work unearths Lord of the Rings illustrations
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
A University of Otago literary researcher has uncovered some hitherto unknown paintings and drawings for the Lord of the Rings that the book’s famous author, the late J.R.R. Tolkien, had believed best depicted the scenes in his un-illustrated novel.
Otago Lifts International Enrolment Cap to 15 per cent
Tuesday, 18 September 2012
Today the University of Otago announced that it will raise the cap on international student enrolments to 15 per cent, up from the current 12 per cent.
Children’s own perspectives on the Christchurch quakes
Thursday, 13 September 2012
The ways that school-age children experienced the after-effects of the Christchurch earthquakes have been documented in a new University of Otago study.
Otago gains $27.6m in Govt funding to develop innovative tools and technologies
Wednesday, 12 September 2012
Funding announced today brings to $27.6m the total that University of Otago researchers have been awarded to lead projects in the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment’s 2012 Science Investment Round. Nine projects within the round are Otago-led, which is more than any other university in New Zealand.
Interventions can reduce falls in over-65s who live at home
Wednesday, 12 September 2012
There is now strong evidence that some interventions can prevent falls in people over the age of 65 who are living in their own homes, according to a comprehensive University of Otago-led review of research in the area.
University names prestigious Arts Fellows for 2013
Tuesday, 11 September 2012
Five talented individuals were today named as next year’s recipients of the coveted University of Otago Arts Fellowships in literature, art, music, dance and children’s writing.
Reasons behind healthy eating may be crucial to women’s body weight
Monday, 10 September 2012
Middle-aged women who are self-motivated to eat healthily have a lower body mass index (BMI) than those who do so in order to keep others happy, new University of Otago research suggests.
Mirroring society? Health Sciences students’ backgrounds examined
Friday, 7 September 2012
University of Otago research is raising questions about the extent to which health sciences students reflect a cross-section of society, but also shows progress is being made in broadening the student intake in terms of their social background.
Anonymous donor gives $5 million to the University of Otago Christchurch Appeal
Thursday, 6 September 2012
The University of Otago Christchurch Appeal got off to a flying start with a $5 million donation to its Christchurch Heart Institute fund.
Otago University appoints next Bioethics Centre Director
Monday, 3 September 2012
The University of Otago has selected a leading medical ethicist as the next Director of its Bioethics Centre. Dr John McMillan, an Otago graduate currently at Australia’s Flinders University, will take up the Directorship and appointment as Professor of Bioethics in February.
Expedition returns wealth of data on whales, sea lions and birds
Wednesday, 29 August 2012
A University of Otago led multi-disciplinary expedition to the Sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands has recently returned with an abundance of scientific data on whales, sea lions and birds, but also evidence of ship-strike on a Southern Right Whale.
Persistent cannabis use that starts in adolescence linked to IQ decline
Tuesday, 28 August 2012
Persistent cannabis users who started using the drug before age 18 show an average IQ decline of 8 points and other signs of impaired mental functioning by age 38, according to world-first research emerging from the University of Otago’s long-running Dunedin Multidisciplinary Study.
Special Hocken exhibition for recently acquired art
Tuesday, 28 August 2012
Contemporary art acquired by the Hocken Library over the past five years will be showcased at a new exhibition launching on Friday (August 31), entitled Picture This: Recently Acquired Art.
Otago researchers gain $13M in science funding
Friday, 24 August 2012
Three innovative University of Otago-led research projects in the areas of nutrition, energy, and infrastructure were this week awarded a total of $13.2m in new science investment funding through the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment.
Innovative ‘Functional Formula’ project funded
Friday, 24 August 2012
Professor Gerald Tannock (Microbiology & Immunology) has been awarded $789,900 over two years for a research project investigating the use of novel carbohydrates (oligosaccharides) that can be added to infant formula made from cow’s milk.
$9M in funding for resilient urban futures research
Friday, 24 August 2012
What development path should New Zealand’s cities take to ensure that maximum environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits can be gained?
Otago research to seek energy efficiency in NZ’s transport sector
Thursday, 23 August 2012
How to create an energy efficient transport sector is a question about to be tackled by University of Otago researchers in a multi-million dollar, multi-year project.
Rules around “conflict minerals” likely to cost New Zealand
Tuesday, 21 August 2012
The New Zealand electronics industry should be prepared to come under increased scrutiny and costs due to US legislation affecting countries whose trade involves “conflict minerals,” says University of Otago Accounting Professor David Lont.
Otago researcher heads new Antarctic science foundation
Tuesday, 21 August 2012
Leading Antarctic scientist Professor Gary Wilson of Otago University is the inaugural director of an innovative new science foundation, the New Zealand Antarctic Research Institute (NZARI).
‘Loan sharks’ need tougher regulation and controls
Monday, 20 August 2012
Recent research from the University of Otago, Wellington shows that loan sharks charging interest rates of up to 400% per annum are exploiting Maori, Pacific and low income New Zealanders and need to be better regulated.
Babies may not have a ‘moral compass’ after all: Otago research
Thursday, 16 August 2012
New University of Otago research is casting doubt on a landmark US study that suggested infants as young as six months old possess an innate moral compass that allows them to evaluate individuals as ‘good’ or ‘bad’.
Otago researchers reveal new mechanism behind more male autism
Wednesday, 15 August 2012
New University of Otago research into two sex hormones released by the testes of male fetuses and boys may help solve the enduring mystery of why autism is much more common in boys than girls.
Otago researchers provide exciting first glimpse into the competitive brain
Monday, 13 August 2012
While most of us have been wrapped up in the competitive spirit of the Olympic Games, two University of Otago researchers have been busy teasing out what exactly in the brain drives competitive behaviour.
Cost at issue when young people choose transport: study suggests
Tuesday, 7 August 2012
A new study suggests that young people who do not drive cars choose buses, trains, cycling and walking because they are more affordable and convenient transport options.
NZ children’s iodine status still far from ideal: Otago research
Tuesday, 7 August 2012
The mandatory use of iodised salt in commercial bread since 2009 has improved New Zealand children’s iodine status but many may remain mildly deficient in this essential nutrient, new University of Otago research suggests.
Otago’s stand-out postgraduate supervisors celebrated
Thursday, 2 August 2012
Outstanding supervisors of postgraduate students were recognised last night at an event run jointly by the University of Otago and the Otago University Students’ Association (OUSA).
Health research features at parliamentary presentations
Tuesday, 31 July 2012
The University of Otago will present a series of talks on health research for MPs and policy makers at parliament in collaboration with the University of Auckland and Wellington’s Malaghan Institute.
Renowned philosopher awarded distinguished research medal
Friday, 20 July 2012
One of the world’s leading philosophers of science, Professor Alan Musgrave, is the latest recipient of the University of Otago’s highest research honour, the Distinguished Research Medal.
Tobacco retailer support for new display legislation
Friday, 20 July 2012
Tobacco retailers interviewed in the Wellington area mostly supported the forthcoming removal of point-of-sale tobacco product displays.
Micronutrient powder effective in combating anaemia: Otago research
Wednesday, 18 July 2012
Mixing micronutrient powder into infants’ complementary food reduces rates of anaemia beyond what nutrition education alone can achieve, according to University of Otago-led research involving more than 3000 Cambodian under two year olds.
Nation's top tertiary teaching award won by Otago Pharmacy academic
Wednesday, 18 July 2012
University of Otago School of Pharmacy Senior Lecturer Dr Rhiannon Braund’s dedication to both her learners and profession has led to her being named the 2012 recipient of the Prime Minister’s Supreme Award for tertiary teaching excellence.
Otago researchers gain Neurological Foundation funding
Wednesday, 11 July 2012
Several University of Otago researchers have received funding to support their studies through the latest Neurological Foundation grant round announced today.
University of Otago Teaching Excellence Awards Announced
Wednesday, 11 July 2012
Three Otago academics have been recognised for their outstanding ability to teach in this year's University Teaching Excellence Awards.
Smoking on footpaths increases hazardous air pollutants
Monday, 9 July 2012
A study by the University of Otago, Wellington has found that smoking on city street footpaths increases the amount of dangerous fine particulates in city air.
Women more likely to defer health care for financial reasons
Wednesday, 4 July 2012
Women are more likely to put off going to their GP, buying prescriptions or going to the dentist for financial reasons than men according to a new University of Otago study.
Bite mark bacteria provide potential forensic clues
Friday, 29 June 2012
Oral bacteria lifted from bite marks may provide a new source of clues for forensic experts, thanks to research projects completed by students at the Sir John Walsh Research Institute in the University of Otago's School of Dentistry.
Alcohol use common in TV music videos
Tuesday, 19 June 2012
An analysis of music videos on New Zealand television shows that the portrayal of alcohol is commonplace.
Research aims to improve farming through traditional Maori knowledge
Monday, 18 June 2012
A University of Otago researcher has been granted $600,000 over two years to create a low-input farming model combining Maori knowledge and science.
Otago appoints new Professor of Entrepreneurship
Monday, 18 June 2012
The University of Otago has appointed leading marketing researcher Professor Sylvie Chetty as its next Professor of Entrepreneurship and Director of its Centre for Entrepreneurship.
Otago appoints inaugural chair in neurosurgery
Saturday, 16 June 2012
A leading Belgian neurosurgeon and brain researcher has been appointed as the inaugural Neurological Foundation Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Otago. An ongoing campaign led by the Foundation is seeking to ensure that this professorial position can be funded in perpetuity.
University of Otago Economic Impact Tops $1.5 billion
Thursday, 14 June 2012
The latest annual Economic Impact Report for the University of Otago indicates that estimated direct expenditure of the University, its staff and students was $889.9 million in 2011, and that the downstream effect, or total economic impact, of this direct expenditure is $1.648 billion.
Otago business student wins national award
Thursday, 14 June 2012
University of Otago Business School student Helena Langer, studying Management for her Bachelor of Commerce, has won the Global Leader Award at the ninth annual Global Enterprise Experience competition.
Smokefree city streets not a problem for business
Monday, 11 June 2012
Businesses surveyed on Wellington’s central city ‘Golden Mile’ streets have little concern about the possible financial impact of a smokefree streets policy.
Improving health care for inmates and whānau the focus of symposium
Thursday, 7 June 2012
The University of Otago, Wellington in association with Regional Public Health is to hold the first-ever New Zealand symposium on Friday 8 June focusing on health issues and barriers to care faced by people who have been imprisoned, those coming out, and their whānau.
$4.2m grant funds new directions for research centre
Thursday, 7 June 2012
New funding from the Health Research Council has continued support for the Centre for Free Radical Research at the University of Otago, Christchurch with a grant of $4.2 million over the next three years.
Major funding for University of Otago health research
Thursday, 7 June 2012
World-class research at the University of Otago aimed at improving New Zealanders’ health and wellbeing has gained significant backing in the Health Research Council’s latest annual funding round.
Outstanding early-career researcher wins Carl Smith Medal
Tuesday, 5 June 2012
Internationally recognised poetry scholar Dr Jacob Edmond is the latest recipient of the University of Otago’s Carl Smith Medal and Rowheath Trust Award.
University temporarily closes Aquarium to public from today
Friday, 1 June 2012
The University of Otago is closing its Aquarium facility to the public from today (Friday June 1) following a recent assessment showing the 1960s-built structure is earthquake prone.
Otago researchers clarify DHB funding formula
Friday, 1 June 2012
A report representing the first-ever attempt to comprehensively detail how the population-based funding formula (PBFF) for District Health Boards (DHBs) operates has just been released by University of Otago researchers.
Well-planned cities improve people’s health
Friday, 1 June 2012
New Zealand is one of the countries critically examined in a major report on the planning of cities and their impact on population health, released this week. The report ‘Shaping Cities for Health’ was commissioned by a leading UK medical journal The Lancet.
Death by disconnection: ‘Fuel poverty’ issue missed in Muliaga case
Friday, 1 June 2012
An analysis of hundreds of print media stories on the death of Auckland resident, Mrs Folole Muliaga, after her power was cut off by Mercury Energy in 2007 has found that the wider issue of ‘fuel poverty’ was largely ignored.
First symposium for Gut Health Network
Wednesday, 30 May 2012
A variety of medical disorders which all appear to originate in the gut will be the focus of the first annual symposium of the recently formed Gut Health Network which take places at the University of Otago this Friday.
Awards recognise up-and-coming Otago researchers
Tuesday, 29 May 2012
Early-Career Awards for Distinction in Research have been made to four highly promising University of Otago staff members.
University of Otago appoints new Maori Development Director
Monday, 28 May 2012
The University of Otago has appointed Tuari Potiki as its new Director of Maori Development.
“The Middle East Unfolding”: 2012 Otago Foreign Policy School
Thursday, 24 May 2012
The nature of changes wrought in the Middle East by the Arab uprisings and their implications for the region and its role in the wider world are among topics being explored at next month’s Otago Foreign Policy School.
Otago honours ocean research group’s achievements
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
A world-leading team of ocean chemistry scientists has been selected as the inaugural recipients of the University of Otago’s Research Group Award.
Smokers support increased regulation of tobacco industry
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
Just published research has found strong support from New Zealand smokers for much greater regulation of the tobacco industry.
University of Otago research finds consistent under-reporting of sea-lion bycatch
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
Ministry of Primary Industries data on self-reporting of sea lion deaths by those involved in the arrow squid fishery paint a grim picture of more than a decade of non-compliance with New Zealand law designed to protect marine mammal populations, new University of Otago research suggests.
Short term household income change and impacts on health
Wednesday, 16 May 2012
Short term changes in household income have only small effects on health, but have more significant impacts if income is affected by unemployment or chronic health conditions, new research from the University of Otago, Wellington shows.
Uptake of Coroners’ recommendations to be investigated
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
A major new study will examine whether Coroners’ recommendations are being acted on and helping to save lives.
Public health expert questions prescription charge move
Tuesday, 15 May 2012
The Government’s announcement that it will increase the co-payment for a prescription from $3 to $5 per item, for up to a maximum of 20 items per year, represents a questionable trade-off, says a University of Otago public health researcher.
The cost of law-making in New Zealand
Monday, 14 May 2012
University of Otago, Wellington researchers have just published a study that estimates for the first time the average cost of producing a new law in New Zealand.
High income mobility but one in five households have chronic low income
Wednesday, 9 May 2012
A new study by the University of Otago, Wellington shows how the problem of chronic low income for a significant number of New Zealand households co-exists with high income mobility for the rest.
Otago researchers delve into enigmatic burial rituals
Wednesday, 9 May 2012
University of Otago researchers working in remote Cambodian mountains are shedding new light on the lost history of an unidentified people by studying their enigmatic burial rituals.
Encouraging news for heart patients
Monday, 30 April 2012
Inheriting gene variants that increase the risk of developing coronary heart disease does not necessarily mean an individual is going to have reduced life expectancy if he or she suffers a heart attack.
How childhood family income affects adulthood
Tuesday, 24 April 2012
A study from the University of Otago’s long-running Christchurch Health and Development Study (CHDS) throws new light on a current issue; links between family income and other outcomes later in life such as health and educational achievement.
Sean Davison to speak at Otago euthanasia debate
Monday, 23 April 2012
Following the completion of his home detention sentence for the assisted suicide of his mother, South Africa-based scientist Professor Sean Davison will be one of five panellists to speak at an open public forum on Thursday examining the issues of euthanasia and assisted suicide.
Improving the labelling of food for health
Friday, 20 April 2012
Front-of-pack (FOP) labelling of food in New Zealand has support from industry, policy-makers and NGOs according to new research from the Universities of Otago and Auckland.
Charitable blue collar workers most frequent body donors: Otago study
Friday, 20 April 2012
People who donate their bodies to science are more likely to be blue collar workers who also regularly give blood, are registered organ donors, and give frequently to charity, according to an international study led by the University of Otago.
Cancer Trends survival report shows improvements and inequalities
Wednesday, 18 April 2012
Cancer survival is significantly improving in New Zealand, but inequalities in survival remain stark according to a new report released today by the University of Otago and the Ministry of Health.
Greater blood clot risk for heavier middle-aged women, especially after surgery
Wednesday, 18 April 2012
A major study by researchers from the Universities of Otago and Oxford has found that overweight and obese middle-aged women are at much higher risk of developing potentially fatal blood clots than women who are a healthy weight.
Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department and the February 22 earthquake
Monday, 16 April 2012
A review by Professor Michael Ardagh and colleagues from the University of Otago, Christchurch and the Canterbury District Health Board, shows emergency health services coped well with the major earthquake in Christchurch on February 22 last year, despite being placed under enormous pressure.
Otago health research supported by lottery grants
Thursday, 5 April 2012
University of Otago researchers have gained $1.04M in new funding from the Lottery Grants Board to pursue research projects aimed at improving the health status of New Zealanders.
Death anxiety increases atheists’ unconscious belief in God: Otago
research
Monday, 2 April 2012
New University of Otago research suggests that when non-religious people think about their own death they become more consciously skeptical about religion, but unconsciously grow more receptive to religious belief.
Audit report for University of Otago favourable in key areas
Thursday, 29 March 2012
The support the University of Otago provides to its students, and its distinctive institution-wide collegial ethos, are among several key areas singled out for special mention by an independent audit group.
Research opens way to significant improvements for medication
Tuesday, 27 March 2012
International research co-authored by the University of Otago, Christchurch has unraveled a century old scientific mystery, opening the way to significant improvements in the way drugs are delivered to the body.
Size matters: large Marine Protected Areas work for dolphins
Tuesday, 27 March 2012
Ecologists in New Zealand have shown for the first time that Marine Protected Areas – long advocated as a way of protecting threatened marine mammals – actually work. Their study, based on 21 years' monitoring and published today in the British Ecological Society's Journal of Applied Ecology, reveals that a marine sanctuary off the coast of Christchurch has significantly improved survival of Hector's dolphins – one of the rarest dolphins in the world.
Otago plays major role in development of new oral rotavirus vaccine
Monday, 26 March 2012
The University of Otago is playing a major role in the international development of a new low-cost oral vaccine to protect newborn babies against rotavirus.
University students helping to design Maniototo futures
Friday, 23 March 2012
An innovative collaboration between staff and students from the University of Otago’s Department of Applied Sciences and the Maniototo Revitalisation Project is demonstrating the potential for learning opportunities that can also benefit the community.
Otago scientist on first Japan fault-zone expedition
Thursday, 22 March 2012
University of Otago geologist Dr Virginia Toy has been selected to travel on board the scientific drilling vessel Chikyu when it departs next month to explore, for the first time, the undersea fault that slipped to generate the devastating Tohuku-Oki earthquake off the coast near Sendai, Japan,in March last year.
Students’ daily functioning after drinking: new research
Tuesday, 20 March 2012
University students who spend a night drinking excessively are not only more likely to feel physically unwell the next day, they will also find it harder to concentrate or manage their study workload, according to a new Otago study.
Long work hours linked to alcohol risk for nurses and midwives
Thursday, 15 March 2012
It is well known that nurses and midwives work schedules are often irregular and involve shifts, now new research from the University of Otago, Christchurch in association with the University of Queensland has also shown that long hours and harmful alcohol use are linked.
Arthritis research boosted at University of Otago
Tuesday, 13 March 2012
The University of Otago is establishing an Arthritis Research Theme to enhance support for the internationally leading work its researchers are undertaking in this area. These research efforts are seeking to improve the understanding and treatment of the rheumatic diseases that affect more than half a million New Zealanders.
Former Vice-Chancellor to head Royal Society of New Zealand
Monday, 12 March 2012
The next President of the Royal Society of New Zealand will be the University of Otago’s previous Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir David Skegg, the Society announced today.
Forum provides information for Dunedin Campus Staff on seismic strengthening plans
Tuesday, 6 March 2012
University of Otago staff were today informed about the University’s seismic assessment and strengthening programme for buildings on its Dunedin Campus, which has been budgeted at $50M over the next eight years.
Otago Professor New Director of Allan Wilson Centre
Wednesday, 29 February 2012
Professor Hamish Spencer of the University of Otago will be the new Director of the Allan Wilson Centre for Molecular Ecology and Evolution, a New Zealand Centre of Research Excellence hosted at Massey University, its Vice-Chancellor Steve Maharey announced today.
Giant pre-historic NZ penguin reconstructed at Otago
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
The bones of a giant penguin fossilised in a Waimate cliff have been reconstructed at the University of Otago’s Geology Department, giving researchers new insights into the prehistoric creature.
Preventable nerve injuries from treatments need attention: Otago research
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
New University of Otago research suggests that a stronger focus is needed on preventing accidental nerve injury during medical treatments in New Zealand.
Political leadership needed to achieve tobacco-free goal
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
Clear goals and detailed planning are critical to achieve the government’s aim of making New Zealand ‘smoke-free’ by 2025, according to health researchers from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms indicated
Friday, 24 February 2012
Population-based screening for often fatal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) should be given serious consideration, according to a new study from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Non-essential (NEEDNT) food list – a new tool against obesity
Friday, 24 February 2012
Researchers at the University of Otago, Christchurch have developed a new list of 49 ‘NEEDNT’ foods as part of a treatment research programme for obesity.
Hocken to tour works by Frances Hodgkins Fellow Kushana Bush
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
In an unprecedented move, the University of Otago’s Hocken Library will take works by 2012 Frances Hodgkins Fellow Kushana Bush on a national tour that will include the Pah Homestead TSB Wallace Arts Centre in Auckland.
University of Otago supports research into veterans’ health
Wednesday, 22 February 2012
The University of Otago and the New Zealand Defence Force will today sign a memorandum of understanding which will see significantly increased research into the health of military veterans, serving personnel and their families.
Extending smoke-free areas outside bars could help curb “social smoking”
Tuesday, 21 February 2012
Smoking and drinking often go hand in hand. Therefore extending the smoking ban outside bars could help curb “social smoking”, a qualitative study published online in the journal Tobacco Control suggests.
Christchurch Earthquake Memorial Gathering
Monday, 20 February 2012
The University of Otago and the Otago University Students Association in collaboration with the Dunedin City Council will host a memorial gathering at the Otago Museum Reserve on Wednesday 22 February to mark the anniversary of the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake.
Alarming increase in serious infectious diseases in NZ
Monday, 20 February 2012
Admissions to New Zealand hospitals from infectious diseases have jumped dramatically over the last two decades according to just published research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
Vitamin C may enhance radiation therapy for aggressive brain tumours
Friday, 17 February 2012
Recent research by the University of Otago, Wellington has shown that giving brain cancer cells high dose vitamin C makes them much more susceptible to radiation therapy.
University of Otago and Students’ Association create historic partnership for Orientation 2012
Wednesday, 15 February 2012
In a major break from tradition, the University of Otago and its Students’ Association have created a new partnership for Orientation.
Emerging influenza viruses in animals still a threat to human health
Tuesday, 14 February 2012
A top international influenza researcher, educated at the University of Otago, warns that public health officials responsible for the surveillance of influenza viruses should not be complacent about the development of new viruses that may spread from the animal world to humans.
Breastfeeding protects against asthma up to six years of age
Friday, 10 February 2012
Research by the University of Otago in Christchurch and Wellington has shown that breastfeeding of infants has a clear protective effect against children developing asthma or wheezing up to six years of age.
Many NZ primary schools need to be ‘sun smarter’: Otago research
Friday, 10 February 2012
While New Zealand primary school students are benefiting from improved sun protection efforts over recent years, our schools still lag behind those of Australia in the ‘sun smart’ stakes, according to latest University of Otago research.
Food safety regulation of poultry cuts levels of paralysis
Wednesday, 8 February 2012
A recent large decrease in campylobacter infection from fresh poultry in New Zealand has also resulted in a significant drop in a neurological condition which can result in paralysis or death.
Calories, not protein or carbs, are key to weight loss for people with diabetes
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Overweight or obese people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to reduce weight if they focus on cutting back on total calorie intake, rather than specific high protein/high carbohydrate diets according to a new study from the University of Otago, Wellington.
One in five gay men with HIV unaware of infection: Otago research
Thursday, 2 February 2012
New University of Otago research suggests that 6.5% of gay and bisexual men in Auckland have HIV, with a fifth (21%) of these unaware of their infection.
Otago Business School Maintains Prestigious AACSB Business Accreditation
Monday, 23 January 2012
The University of Otago Business School has maintained its business accreditation by AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Otago early-career researcher’s achievements rewarded
Friday, 20 January 2012
An early-career rheumatology researcher who has already made significant contributions to improving the treatment of arthritis and gout is the University of Otago’s latest Rowheath Trust Award and Carl Smith Medal recipient.
Setting a good example? Smoking amongst key occupational groups
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
A new study published by researchers from University of Otago, Wellington has found that smoking rates have declined rapidly amongst many occupational groups over the last 25 years.
Government Sea Lion proposal at odds with new DOC information: expert
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
A University of Otago expert on rare New Zealand Sea Lions says the Government’s proposed radical policy change which he is certain will endanger the species comes despite two of its own departments producing conflicting advice on the issue.
Nutrition policy favours food industry - not public health
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
The national nutrition policy formulated by Labour and National-led Governments favours the food industry over public health according to new research from the University of Otago, Wellington.
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