Discover how life begins, develops, and evolves. Take your understanding further with postgraduate study in Reproduction, Genetics and Development.
Why study postgraduate Reproduction, Genetics and Development?
Reproduction, Genetics and Development ask big questions about how life works, and how we can use that knowledge for good.
At postgraduate level, this subject is about depth, direction, and impact. You explore how genetic information is passed on, how organisms develop from a single cell, and how these processes influence health, disease, and evolution. The field is constantly evolving, driven by new technologies and discoveries that reshape how we understand biology. Studying it now places you at the leading edge of scientific progress.
You develop advanced analytical thinking, experimental design skills, and the confidence to work with complex biological data. Just as importantly, you learn how to ask better questions. This discipline connects to real-world challenges such as fertility, genetic conditions, developmental disorders, and biodiversity conservation. If you want your science to matter beyond the lab, this subject gives you the foundation to make a meaningful contribution.
Career opportunities
Postgraduate training in Reproduction, Genetics and Development opens doors across research, health, and innovation. Graduates may find careers in roles such as:
- Research scientist in academic or government institutions
- Biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry specialist
- Clinical or laboratory research roles in health sciences
- Science policy, communication, or advisory positions
- Further doctoral study leading to academic careers
What it’s like to study at this level
Postgraduate study is immersive, collaborative, and driven by curiosity. You work closely with academic staff and other postgraduate students, often in small groups or research settings. Learning is hands-on, with opportunities to design experiments, analyse real data, and engage deeply with current scientific literature. Discussion and debate are central, helping you refine your ideas and build confidence as an independent thinker. Many papers connect theory directly to active research, giving you insight into how new knowledge is created and shared. You are encouraged to take ownership of your learning and shape your study around your interests.
This is for you if ...
A strong interest in biological sciences will support your success in this subject. Previous study in genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, or related life sciences is helpful. Curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to engage with complex ideas are just as important.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Reproduction, Genetics and Development as an undergraduate at Otago.
Where discovery becomes expertise
Otago offers a supportive, research-focused environment where postgraduate students are part of a vibrant scientific community.
You learn alongside researchers who are actively contributing to their fields, bringing current thinking and real-world perspective into their teaching. Otago’s strong postgraduate culture means you are supported to develop independence while still feeling connected and guided. Dunedin’s campus encourages collaboration, with students and staff working closely across disciplines. Facilities, laboratories, and research opportunities reflect Otago’s long-standing commitment to life sciences.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, masters’, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honours (BBiomedSc(Hons))
An eight-month (full time), restricted-entry, thesis-only postgraduate programme, providing an excellent foundation for a career in biomedical research
Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBiomedSc)
A one‑year thesis‑only degree that provides an excellent foundation for an academic or research career, and a stepping stone for entry into a PhD programme
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
REGD papers
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Contacts
Email biomedsc@otago.ac.nz
Faculty of Biomedical Sciences (Dunedin campus)
Faculty of Medicine – Christchurch
Faculty of Medicine – Wellington
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