Rate My Professor Jess McLean

Jess McLean serves as the Reporting and Contracts Manager for Genomics Aotearoa, as well as Advisor – Communications and Research Activities, within the Department of Biochemistry in the Division of Health Sciences at the University of Otago. Genomics Aotearoa represents a pivotal national initiative in genomics and bioinformatics, functioning as an alliance of ten key partner organizations dedicated to elevating Aotearoa New Zealand's standing in these critical scientific domains. The partners encompass prominent universities such as the University of Auckland, Massey University, University of Otago, University of Waikato, and Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, complemented by Crown Research Institutes including AgResearch, ESR, Plant & Food Research, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, and Scion. With more than 30 associate members consisting of researchers and end-users, the programme drives forward nationally significant research efforts that bolster New Zealand's economic, environmental, and social wellbeing. Focus areas span health, environmental, and primary production sectors. Core activities include forging national collaborations, disbursing project funding, constructing a national genomics data repository alongside a bioinformatics analytical platform, enhancing researcher skills and capabilities, embedding Te Ao Māori principles via Māori-led research, responsible management of indigenous genomics data, and cultivating international partnerships to adopt global best practices. The programme receives its principal funding from the Strategic Science Investment Fund administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, covering the period from 2017 to 2024.

Jess McLean commenced her tenure at Genomics Aotearoa in early June 2021, assuming the role of Advisor – Communications and Research Activities. Among her responsibilities, she manages the Genomics Aotearoa YouTube channel, encouraging submissions of content ideas that resonate with the organisation's strategic vision. She also oversees registrations for important events, including the annual general meeting held at venues such as AgResearch Invermay. Furthermore, Jess McLean has contributed significantly to the production of the programme's annual reports through layout design and has engaged in creative collaborations, such as developing the pikorua symbol in partnership with Josh Byford-Pothan, a Science Communication student of Māori whakapapa, and Denise, as featured in the 2024 Annual Report.