Makes learning interactive and engaging.
Dr Rebecca Oliver is the Project Manager for Genetics Otago, a flagship research centre at the University of Otago located in the Biochemistry Building. She has served in this role since 2019, overseeing the coordination of numerous events and initiatives that support the genetics research community. Her contributions include organizing the annual Genetics Otago Symposia from 2019 to 2025, biennial Postgraduate Retreats in 2022 and 2023, Tech Week workshops in 2023 on bioinformatics and gel electrophoresis, the Ira Rangahau Māori conference in 2021 with hands-on laboratory workshops, the Careers Evening in 2020, and various award programs recognizing outstanding mentors, researchers, and students.
Dr Oliver facilitates outreach efforts such as Genetics on the Go for school students and contributed to the development of educational kits for the Claire Aldrich Legacy Fund, which teaches about rare genetic disorders. She manages event registrations, nominations for prizes like the Genetics Otago Medal, and serves as the primary contact for the centre, including for initiatives like RARITY webinars. Her work promotes collaboration across University of Otago departments in the Division of Sciences and Health Sciences, enhancing professional development and public engagement in genetics.
