The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Musculoskeletal Medicine at the University of Otago, Christchurch, proudly hosted Poppy Buissink over the summer of 2023-2024. A fourth-year student at the University of Auckland studying Biomedical Engineering and Biology, her participation in the Future Health Researchers programme has highlighted her dedication to advancing health research and practical skills in tissue engineering.
Working with the CReaTE Research Group under the supervision of Professor Tim Woodfield and the guidance of PhD student Melissa Ishii, Poppy’s project focused on the design and optimisation of scaffolds for biofabrication strategies. This research completed in collaboration with the team is crucial for developing and enhancing techniques that support tissue regeneration, thereby improving treatment options for patients with damaged tissues. The outcomes of this project can have significant implications for advancing biofabricated structures that aid in tissue regeneration.
Poppy expressed her gratitude to the University of Otago, Christchurch, and the Canterbury Orthopaedic Services Trust for organising and funding the Future Health Researchers programme. "I really enjoyed my time in Christchurch, and I learnt a lot about health research and how it is conducted within a New Zealand research team," she said. "It was awesome to be able to further develop my practical skills as well as meet the welcoming and passionate people at this campus."
The Department is pleased to have supported Poppy’s research endeavours and looks forward to the continued impact of her work in this important field. You can hear from Poppy about her time with our team and Department, in this video: