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What is Bioengineering?

Bioengineering is rooted in physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology, and the life sciences. It is a multi-disciplinary approach to the systematic, quantitative, and integrative method of developing solutions to problems important in biology, medical research, clinical proactive, and population studies.

Study Bioengineering at Otago

Opportunities at the Centre for Bioengineering and Nanomedicine

The Centre has a wealth of research opportunities for interns, PhD students, and postdoctoral researchers. We attract students from a broad range of technical backgrounds who then apply these skills to problems in medicine and the biological sciences.

Visit the Health Sciences postgraduate research opportunities database

For more about research disciplines please contact our research leaders:

If you are unsure which discipline to consider please email azam.ali@otago.ac.nz

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) requires highly developed academic ability, independence and perseverance. Your thesis must reveal your ability to carry out research. It should also show your originality, independence, and make a significant contribution to knowledge in your chosen field – at least some of your work should be worthy of publication. Most students take between 3-4 years of full-time study to complete their PhD.

Please visit these pages for information, requirements and regulations:

A PhD within the Centre can be highly rewarding as the projects involve applying basic science to real problems. PhD students can enrol either at the University of Otago or collaborating institution.

Visit the postgraduate research opportunities database to view the Centre for Bioengineering and Nanomedicine PhD opportunities.

Master of Applied Science in Bioengineering

Please visit these pages for University of Otago requirements and regulations:

Conducting research in bioengineering enables students to apply their knowledge of physical or engineering principles to address problems in biology and medicine. Candidates for the MAppSc are based in one or more departments within the Divisions of Sciences or Health Sciences.

If you are interested in studying towards a MAppSc with the Centre for Bioengineering and Nanomedicine there are a number of ways you can proceed:

  1. Visit the postgraduate research opportunities database and contact the relevant staff member
  2. Browse our research pages to see what our staff are currently investigating:
    Biomaterials
    Imaging
    Point-of-care technologies
    Regenerative medicine
  3. If you are unsure who to discuss your options with please contact Dr Azam Ali by email azam.ali@otago.ac.nz
  4. Students can then proceed by contacting the relevant staff member, outlining their research interests and attach a copies of their curriculum vitae and their transcript showing all the papers taken and grades obtained for their honours or master's degree.

Centre requirements

For any applicant to be considered by the Centre for Bioengineering and Nanomedicine, they must

  • Be eligible for admission to the MAppSc programme at the University of Otago
  • Hold qualifications that are acceptable to the University of Otago
  • Must normally have completed either a four year honours degree or a Postgraduate Diploma in a relevant subject
  • Must normally have attained an average grade of B or better for all papers in the final year of study

If an applicant has a three-year degree, completion of a Postgraduate Diploma will be required before admission to the MAppSc can be approved.

Further information

If you would like more information about the Master of Applied Science in Bioengineering with our Centre, please contact:
Tel +64 3 479 7456
Email azam.ali@otago.ac.nz

Start your application at the MAppSc regulations page

Master of Science in Bioengineering

The Master of Science (MSc) is a two-year degree which encompasses both coursework and research. The first year involves mainly coursework and preliminary research preparation. Students will have the opportunity to contribute to existing fields of research, or to begin to develop new areas.

Please visit these pages for information, requirements and regulations:

Start your application at the MSc regulations page

Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma

Please visit these pages for information, requirements and regulations:

Start your application at the PGCertAppSc regulations page

Start your application at the PGDipAppSc regulations page

Disclaimer: The University of Otago makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided on its web pages. However the matters covered, including the availability and structure of courses, are subject to regular review and no warranty or representation can be provided regarding the accuracy of such information, and the University does not accept liability for any losses or damage arising directly or indirectly from reliance on the information. While the University of Otago takes all due care in implementing the regulations, policies and procedures that relate to the admissions process, it reserves the right to correct any administrative errors that may occur.

Student profiles

Meet some of our young scientists.

Ellison Aldrich (2018)

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