Last week 10 tertiary and high school tauira from across Aotearoa came together for The Institute of Environmental Science and Research’s (ESR) first ever genomics bootcamp.

Held at ESR’s Kenepuru Science Centre, the bootcamp was an opportunity for tauira with an interest in genomics to take a deep dive into these career prospects and study areas.

Tauira learnt about DNA and sequencing, the application of genomics, the relationship between whakapapa and DNA, data sovereignty, coding and data analysis. They also had the opportunity to explore the facilities and gain experience working in a PC1 laboratory.

Oxford Nanopore, a world-leader in genetic sequencing technology born out of Oxford University, was a key sponsor of the event in their first commitment to an indigenous STEM kaupapa. Tauira were given the opportunity to utilise Oxford Nanopore’s technology as part of their lab sessions.

“The experience has definitely enforced the idea that you need to understand technology in modern science. Being able to do practicals with technology has been really helpful,” said Hine Fungakava - Papakura High School.

ESR staff spoke to the tauira about their own career journeys and the diverse career opportunities that exist. They also spoke about the value rangatahi Māori can bring to this workforce. A long-time partner ofPūhoro’s, ESR are committed to creating more opportunities for Māori in STEM.

“This experience has definitely opened my eyes up,especially in regards to genetics, genetic diversity, different microbes and organelles.That was my favourite subject in biology and I didn't really know what different fields there would be and how diverse it would be,” said Ryan Mills – Palmerston North Boys High School.

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