Rate My Professor Gemella Reynolds-Hatem

Gemella Reynolds-Hatem (Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ngāti Hāteatea, Ngāti Waewae – Ngāi Tahu) is a researcher affiliated with the University of Otago's Department of Biochemistry. She earned her Bachelor of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) from the department in May 2024, after completing advanced coursework including 400-level Genetics. As an MSc student in the Cancer Genetics research laboratory of the Guilford group, she investigates hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) and the associated elevated breast cancer risks in Ngāi Tahu whānau stemming from the CDH1 gene mutation. In 2025, Reynolds-Hatem received a Master's scholarship from the Cancer Society of New Zealand's Māori Cancer Researcher Awards for her project entitled "The management of breast cancer risk in HDGC whānui o Ngāi Tahu."

The project entails testing the drugs capivasertib and fulvestrant to inhibit tumour growth in CDH1-associated cancer models, alongside community wānanga at Tuahiwi that incorporate tikanga Māori practices to improve health outcomes for affected whānau. Her research seeks to integrate mātauranga Māori into scientific processes, advocate for addressing mamae in healthcare and research settings, and enhance the responsiveness of health systems to Māori needs. Motivated by a tuakana's revelation during her undergraduate studies about the CDH1 mutation's prevalence in her iwi, she perceives this work as a calling to serve her people. Reynolds-Hatem also holds the position of Tumuaki Takirua (Co-President) of Te Rōpū Māori, where she leads advocacy for Māori students, delivers kōrero at events such as the opening of new cancer research facilities, and contributes to fostering Māori success in science. Guided by the whakataukī "Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei" (For us and our children after us), her endeavors aim to create enduring benefits for present and future generations.