It gave me the opportunity to hopefully return some benefits to my own people...
One of the main attractions of being involved in this project was the combination of scientific knowledge and traditional Māori knowledge. He says: “One of the really important things about the project was that it enabled our people to engage in science.”
He is also an Ambassador for Futureintech and you can find out more about here.
Stephen is also analysing a fungus called the vegetable caterpillar, or awheto, which has been used traditionally by Māori for food, medicine and to produce tattoo ink. He is hoping to find compounds in the vegetable caterpillar that are associated with its health benefits.
Listen to a RNZ interivew with Stephen on the vegetable catapillar.
Career Pathway
Stephen dreamed of becoming a doctor while still in primary school, but as he grew older his interests changed and he decided to pursue a career in science. He also saw a career in science as being a way in which he could benefit Māori.
Stephen has a Science degree in genetics and microbiology from Massey University and is working towards an Arts degree in Māori Studies and Anthropology.
This article is based on information current in 2007.
Stephen Tauwhare suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2009, for further information, see this news article.
