Kia ora Shobana - from intern to research technician

Ko Tararua te maunga
Ko Manawatū te awa
Ko Kurahaupō te waka
Ko Ngāti Raukawa te iwi
Ko Ngāti Te Au te hapū
Ko Paranui te marae
Ko Rangimahora raua ko Krishna ōku mātua
Ko Shobana Reddy tōku ingoa

“I enjoyed science in high school, so I decided to follow it through to university. I wanted to solve real-world problems, create sustainable solutions and improve the quality of life for others, and science seemed like the best way to make that happen.”

Shobana found out about the DairyNZ internship through Waikato-Tainui after signing up to their scholarship register. At the time she was studying at Auckland University, completing her second year of a Bachelor of Science, majoring in chemistry, and molecular and cellular biology.

“I absolutely loved my time with DairyNZ as a summer intern. Working with animals, applying the knowledge I had learned in the classroom into real research trials that involved field and laboratory work, and gaining data entry and analysis skills were definite highlights.”

There were challenges too.

“Working with animals safely and data analysis using RStudio software were new to me.  I got through because I had an amazing support system to help me navigate any challenges I faced.”

“In 2021, I joined DairyNZ as a part-time Research Technician in my final year of study. When I graduated in November 2021, this became a full-time role. As a research technician, I gather, record, and analyse data for experiments, and assist scientists with the more practical aspects of daily research.”

“During my time at DairyNZ, I’ve had so many opportunities to develop networks with other like-minded rangatahi, animal enthusiasts, and inspiring scientists. I’ve also developed a greater understanding of Mātauranga Māori.

“My study experience has helped to develop my academic writing, critical thinking, and science knowledge base and my work experience has allowed me to hone my verbal communication and interpersonal skills.”

In the future Shobana would like to become a scientist, “creating and managing my own trials”.

“If you are looking for opportunities to grow and learn, look no further than DairyNZ.”