Last week Cawthron Institute welcomed four university students to join its team as they start their summer research placements.  

Cawthron summer scholarships provide an opportunity to experience the challenges and rewards of research and are part of Cawthron’s outreach and education activity to inspire the next generation of scientists by sharing our research.

Established in 2016, and open to students enrolled at a New Zealand tertiary institution, the $7,500 scholarships provide students with 10 weeks of full-time research on a project at Cawthron Institute. The scholarships are funded in part by bequests and donations to Cawthron Institute. 

All summer scholars are very high academic achievers, have contributed to community activities, and are strong advocates for the environment and science-led research. The 2024-25 scholars are: 

• Anna Parsons – Kathleen Curtis (Lady Rigg) Scholarship. Project title – Algae in extreme conditions – what happens to algae biochemistry when they are close to their environmental tolerance limits?

• Annabelle McQuillan – Madge Johnston Scholarship Project title – Enhancing phosphorus removal from wastewaters using microalgae.

• Charlotte McDonald – Sir Theodore Rigg Scholarship. Project title – Ethical cell-based bioassays for toxicity testing of Harmful Algal Bloom species that affect aquaculture. 

• Jessi Gould – Te Pitau Whakarei Karahipi. Project title – Indigenising Cawthron’s Microalgae Culture Collection

Anaru Luke, Tumuaki Te Kāhui Āio, Māori and Indigenous Business Development & Research Team, has supervised several students and said the scholarships offer incredible opportunities for budding scientists in Aotearoa.

“The time that the students have at Cawthron helps them expand their networks in their study area, deepen their passion for science, and in some cases, co-author a scientific journal article, or work with us once their scholarship ends.”

“Our work can make a real difference in supporting mātauranga Māori, the environment and especially water. It is fascinating to watch the students develop over their ten weeks at Cawthron and see how they come to understand that science is used to solve environmental challenges. They also gain an understanding of how the science sector is funded and how to collaborate effectively with other scientists.”

Luke said mentoring a student is satisfying, and it’s great seeing where the students go after their time at Cawthron.

“Not only are the scholarships an opportunity for students to see if they enjoy research, they provide an opportunity for us to learn from them.” 

In total, Cawthron has supported 38 aspiring scientists with a summer scholarship that comes with mentorship by top Cawthron scientists. For more information about the scholarships, including how to make a donation or leave a bequest, please email us at foundation@cawthron.org.nz