Stephen Tauwhare (Poutini Kai Tahu, Ngi Hikairo ki Kawhia)
"It gave me the opportunity to hopefully return some benefits to my own people..."
Region
Wellington
Job
Stephen began working at Industrial Research Limited as a research scientist on the Harakeke Project in 2003. His work on the project involved extracting fibre and examining the similarities and differences between different varieties of harakeke (flax).
One of the main attractions of being involved in this project was the combination of scientific knowledge and traditional Maori knowledge. He says: “One of the really important things about the project was that it enabled our people to engage in science.”
Careers: Combining science with traditional Maori knowledge (V0149)
Stephen Tauwhare explains why he became a scientist.
Duration: 0:14
Stephen discussed his job with students from four secondary schools, and you can access this video conference.
He is also an Ambassador for Futureintech and you can find out more about him at: http://www.futureintech.org.nz/People_Profiles.cfm?id=102
To hear Stephen talking about some of his latest research, get Radio New Zealand audio: Vegetable caterpillar.
Career Pathway
Stephen dreamed of becoming a doctor while still in primary school, but as he grew older his interests changed and he decided to pursue a career in science. He also saw a career in science as being a way in which he could benefit Maori people.
Stephen has a Science degree in genetics and microbiology from Massey University and is currently working towards an Arts degree in Maori Studies and Anthropology.
Stephen Tauwhare (Poutini Kai Tahu, Ngi Hikairo ki Kawhia)
- Position
- Scientist
- Field
- Biochemistry
- Place of Work
- Industrial Research Limited
