Centres of Research Excellence Fund

2006 Expressions of Interest

Institute of Biotechnology for Environmental Health Sciences

Director:   Prof. Ken McNatty
Host:         Victoria University of Wellington

Partners:    Malaghan Institute of Medical Research
                  Institute of Environmental Science and Research

Abstract:

Our vision is to develop a CoRE dedicated to developing new knowledge and biotechnologies in the environmental health sciences. The aim is to determine how human and animal activities impact upon the health of our citizens and fauna and the health of our environment. The environment is a major contributor to human and animal health and disease. Exposure to chemicals, pollutants, allergens, agricultural waste, micro-organisms or natural toxins are either known or suspected to have both acute and chronic effects on health and fertility. In human populations, the interaction of these environmental agents with lifestyle and dietary factors can increase or decrease their toxic effects. The goal of the CoRE is to improve the health of citizens and fauna by using environmental sciences and new biotechnologies to understand how these reagents and factors interact to influence health and disease. Particular emphasis will be given to evaluating the effects of chemicals, contaminants and micro-organisms on the immune, neurological and reproductive systems and to providing solutions through dissemination of information and the development of databases, sensors, diagnostics, bio-remediators, vaccines and therapeutics. Our strategy will be to integrate the existing scientific expertises of the Schools of Biological Sciences, Psychology and Chemistry and Physical Sciences at Victoria University of Wellington, Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Institute of Environmental Science & Research Ltd along with leading biotechnologists at other institutes.

New and existing scientific methodologies will be utilised including human and animal genomic data bases, envirogenomics, chemical genetics, directed in vitro molecular evolution, diagnostic and sensor technologies.  The outcomes from this CoRE will provide new knowledge of the risks and impacts of environmental factors, provide biotechnology-based solutions to better manage our environment and Government will possess the scientific knowledge to make the most appropriate decisions for enhancing the quality of life in New Zealand.