Rate My Professor Jo Ward

Joanna Ward, known as Jo Ward, is the Molecular Biology Technician in the Department of Zoology within the Division of Sciences at the University of Otago. She is a core member of the Beck Lab, where she utilizes a wide array of molecular biology skills and demonstrates a special talent for in situ hybridisation. Ward ensures the lab runs smoothly and extends her support to numerous other research teams across the department. Her expertise encompasses techniques such as qPCR, protein analysis, and protocol development including HCR RNA-FISH, as acknowledged in various academic works from the University of Otago.

In addition to her technical support role, Ward has co-authored peer-reviewed publications advancing knowledge in developmental and reproductive biology using model organisms like Xenopus laevis tadpoles and Anguilla australis eels. Notable contributions include 'Manipulating the microbiome alters regenerative outcomes following tail amputation in Xenopus laevis' (2022), where she handled methodology and investigation; 'Commensal skin bacteria interact with the innate immune system during tail regeneration in Xenopus laevis tadpoles' (2025), involving methodology, investigation, formal analysis; 'Knockdown of NeuroD2 leads to seizure-like behavior, brain malformations, and sudden death in Xenopus laevis' (2024); and 'Lipoprotein Biology During Induced Oogenesis in the Shortfinned Eel Anguilla australis: Vascular Transport' (2025). These publications reflect her direct involvement in research on regeneration, neural development, microbiome effects, and oogenesis.