Is there a Place for Biotechnological Controls of Pests?

Description:

This scholarship seeks a graduate to explore social perspectives on biotechnological approaches to conservation and kaitiakitanga.

History:

Aotearoa New Zealand’s natural ecosystem and agricultural economies struggle against invasive pests, resulting in declining biodiversity and threat to taonga species. Manual trapping and poisons are useful controls, however biotechnology may provide more effective, humane and targeted ways to control pests. New biotechnological controls may thus improve industries, enhance our ability to act as kaitiaki and help protect taonga species. However, these new approaches and their risks need to be considered carefully, with tangata whenua and mana whenua interests at the fore.

The National Science Challenge: BioHeritage Strategic Objective 5 (Invertebrates) focuses on Novel Tools and Strategies for the Control of Wasps and Varroa Mite. We seek up to 2 Master’s students to contribute to this mahi. Research will align with iwi, hapū, whānau or other communities and organisations for whom varroa mite and/or wasps are a problem. It will identify how biotechnological controls such as RNAi (gene silencing) might support hapori aspirations for a healthy taiao.

. Applicants must have excellent skills in written and oral communication. . Applicants should have a Honours or taught Master’s degree (or a Bachelor’s) with a B+ average in a relevant discipline. . Applicants must be eligible to enrol in a Master’s by Thesis, Master’s of Indigenous Studies or Honours in Māori Studies, at Te Herenga Waka – VUW, on or before 27 February 2023

Selection Criteria:

• In addition to satisfying the eligibility criteria, BioHeritage are looking for students who are keen to apply socio-cultural considerations to the development of biotechnological controls.
• This scholarship is suited to a tauira who is part of a community that is impacted by varroa mite or wasps, or a student who can connect with such communities.
• The successful candidate can work both independently and alongside others in the BioHeritage SO5 Invertebrates team and broader BioHeritage research programme.