Kaa-Sandra Chee
University of Auckland

This speaker's paper is available here.

Having embarked on a scientific career because of an interest in medically-related issues, Kaa-Sandra has completed two degrees at the University of Auckland - a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biological Sciences and a Master of Science. Currently, Kaa-Sandra is undertaking a PhD degree through the School of Biological Sciences and the Discipline of Physiology, also at the University of Auckland. The purpose of this research project is to investigate the causative agent of lens cataracts, and will be completed by 2003.

Further to her research activities at the University, Kaa-Sandra has been involved in the education of undergraduate students as a tutor in first year biology papers and also participates in the Tuakana program, which caters to the needs of first year Maori and Pacific Island students.

Kaa-Sandra has been awarded a science communication fellowship by the Royal Society of New Zealand as part of a wider scheme to take science into the community. In 2001 she was awarded the National FiRST Scholarship Award from the Foundation for Research Science and Technology. Earlier this year Kaa-Sandra undertook work experience at the Ministry of Research Science and Technology.

New Zealand State Services Commission