Victoria University of Wellington students learn about biotechnology futures
A group of Victoria University of Wellington students had the opportunity to learn more about a career in biotechnology at a recent visit from Hon David Parker, Minister for Economic Development, Environment, and Trade and Export Growth.
Every year students in biotechnology have a chance to hear from different entrepreneurs in the biotechnology industry, giving them first-hand insight into how New Zealand’s biotechnology industry runs.
The Minister presented a talk to a group of students studying biotechnology at the University’s Kelburn campus in early October. During the talk, Mr Parker shared his experiences working in the biotechnology industry and gave the students some practical advice on working in the biotechnology industry.
Before becoming a Member of Parliament, Mr Parker used his law and commerce background to work with a variety of biotechnology companies in New Zealand. Mr Parker talked through the successes and challenges he and his business partners faced in the biotechnology industry. The businesses Mr Parker worked with have largely seen success, although all in different ways, from new products to helping fund success in other industries. And these successes were not without their challenges, from dealing with regulations to figuring out how to make their products affordable.
Mr Parker also shared some of the benefits of working in the biotechnology industry. During his time in the industry, Mr Parker was able to work across a variety of different areas, including dairy, health and horticulture. He said the research they did was valuable, and gave the people involved the chance to help make the world a better place. The work was also fun and challenging, and a great learning experience.
Mr Parker said he hopes to see more research and growth in biotechnology in New Zealand.
Professor David Ackerley, the University’s Biotechnology Programme Director, expressed his gratitude to the Minister for finding time in his hectic schedule to share his experiences with the students, and to Dr Graeme Jarvis (adjunct biotechnology lecturer and chief executive of Medicines NZ) for organising the visit.
“Minister Parker provided an inspiring view of the difference one passionate individual can make to the fortunes of a start-up enterprise in New Zealand, and gave his encouragement to students with an entrepreneurial bent,” Professor Ackerley says.