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Dr Jai Whelan is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Public Health at the University of Otago’s Christchurch campus, within the Health Sciences Division of the Faculty of Medicine. He holds a BSc (Hons), MSc, and PhD from the University of Otago, with his doctorate completed in 2024 in the Department of Psychology. His doctoral research examined MDMA use in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Dr Whelan’s research focuses on drug use, lived experience, harm reduction, and drug policy. His postdoctoral work explores methamphetamine stigma along with perspectives on treatment and harm reduction options in Aotearoa. He has co-authored peer-reviewed articles including studies on nitrous oxide use, psychedelic use motivations and consequences, and perceptions of psychedelic drugs, published in journals such as the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs and Drugs, Habits & Social Policy. He maintains interests in reducing harm and stigma associated with drug use through research and public education.
Explore the PHCC briefing backed by University of Otago researchers advocating repeal of NZ's 50-year-old Misuse of Drugs Act for health-focused reforms amid rising harms.
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