Alana Alexander
Te Hikutu (Ngāpuhi)
Research Fellow, Department of Anatomy, University of Otago
Alana's
research utilises the 'time-traveling' ability of population genomics
and phylogenomics by combining genomics, advanced computational tools,
and behavioural, ecological, and biogeographic data to infer processes
leading to patterns of genetic diversity within and among populations.
Her work often focuses on cetaceans (whales and dolphins) as many were
hunted (or subject to bycatch) at an industrial scale for meat and oil
well into the late 20th century, dramatically reducing population sizes
in many species, often to the brink of extinction. As a Māori scientist
she also maintains a strong interest in ensuring that her research can
be used to support kaitiakitanga and rangatiratanga of resources within
the rohe of iwi and hapū.