Steve Broni, Director, Science Academy (OUASSA)
Steve has a Bachelor of Science in Zoology (Marine Biology) from University of Glasgow and Masters in Marine Ornithology from University of Cape Town and joined the Division of Sciences in 2010 to establish the Otago University Advanced School Sciences Academy (OUASSA) and has a passion for science education and communication.
Prior to establishing OUASSA, Steve was an Educator with the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre and stand-in Course co-ordinator for the University of Otago Diploma of Wildlife Management.
Prior to joining the University Steve was Education/Public Awareness Officer for the Department of Conservation in Otago for 15 years. Steve has also worked as a wildlife tour guide, is an internationally qualified Interpretive tour guide and trainer and popular public speaker. He has worked widely overseas in Alaska, Australia, South Africa and Falkland Islands and was a member of the In the Footsteps of Scott Antarctic Expedition 1984-86. Steve is also chairman of the New Zealand Sea Lion Trust.
Contact
Stephen Broni
Director, Otago University Advanced School Sciences Academy (OUASSA)
Tel +64 3 479 9204
Email steve.broni@otago.ac.nz
Petrina Duncan, Science Teaching Co-ordinator, Science Academy (OUASSA)
Petrina Duncan joined the Science Academy in January 2020. She studied Science at Otago University during the 1990’s, gaining a Master of Science in Zoology. Her Master’s research focused on the behavioural ecology of two sympatric skink species in the Nelson Lakes area. In the following years, Petrina’s varied work has included tracking down rare parakeets in the upland valleys of Canterbury, getting up at dawn to find elusive kokako in the central North Island, and staying out late to catch long-tailed bats in Fiordland. She has also helped with science and conservation projects in Tasmania, South and Western Australia and the Simpson Desert in Queensland, tracking down small mammals, reptiles and birds. A self-confessed birder and nature lover, Petrina enjoys long walks in scenic places with binoculars in hand.
After training to be a secondary school teacher in 2010, Petrina taught biology and science at four rural schools in Central Otago and Southland. Teaching opened up the world of science communication and education, both of which she enjoys. Following on from teaching, Petrina worked as a nature/hiking guide in the Wanaka area for three years, sharing her passion for nature with international visitors. She is now studying part-time towards a Post Graduate Certificate in Science Communication while carrying out the role of Teaching Co-ordinator. Being involved in science outreach is a logical next step, providing an opportunity to share her knowledge and passion for biology and all things nature-related with up-and-coming young science students who are at rural or low decile schools.
Contact
Petrina Duncan
PGDipTchg MSc
Science Teaching Co-ordinator, Otago University Science Academy (OUASSA)
Tel +64 3 479 3496
Email petrina.duncan@otago.ac.nz
Stacey Reynolds, Science Wānanga, Kaituitui Wānanga
Stacey (Ngāi Tahu / Waitaha) is responsible for managing an existing suite of Science Wānanga, and to develop new ones to meet the aspirations and needs articulated by iwi partnerships with the University of Otago.
She facilitates the Science Wānanga programme by working closely with iwi organisations, haukāinga, school communities, scientists, academic and research tertiary staff throughout Aotearoa to build a sustainable relationship with iwi. The primary objective of the programme is to enhance the achievement and engagement of Māori in science and health sciences.
Stacey has a Masters of Education and a Bachelor of Arts(Hons) in Māori. She also has a background in careers education, where she developed and implemented career development programmes across New Zealand responsive to Māori learners. Stacey is involved in her local marae in Moeraki.
Contact
Stacey Reynolds
Science Wānanga, Kaituitui Wānanga
Tel: +64 21 552 983
Email: stacey.reyolds@otago.ac.nz
