Kirstin McKenzie is doing what many young scientists dream of: she's training in forensics, and working for ESR (Environmental Science and Research), New Zealand's independent forensic science institute.
In 2003 Kirstin graduated from the University of Otago with a Bachelor of Science in Anatomy and Structural Biology. She applied and was accepted into the Forensics School at University of Auckland, and is working part time as a senior technician at ESR, while she completes her Masters in Forensics.
“I did Health Sciences in my first year at uni and my most enjoyable classes were the biology papers that were taught by lecturers from the Anatomy department. I really enjoyed the more hands-on approach to learning that we experienced through lab work and I was interested in the way the body worked. “
Kirstin chose to come to Otago because she knew it had a great reputation for student lifestyle, and also for study: the areas she was most interested in were available here, and Otago's strengths in Sciences were a real draw-card. So once she was here, what were the highlights?
”I really enjoyed the enthusiasm of lecturers from the Anatomy Department, and the friendly and open environment they presented to students, so much that I was reluctant to leave when I did. Also, the resources that Otago University has to offer Anatomy students are top class, from the Anatomy museum to the use of human cadavers in learning provided invaluable hands on experience and a greater understanding and appreciation of the human body.”
Kirstin found that the extensive lab work – the procedures and analytical techniques used – gave her real confidence. The in-depth study of human anatomy, right down to a molecular level, has given her the kind of understanding she will need as a Forensic scientist, grappling with the implications of trauma, drug and alcohol abuse etc.
“Otago also provided me the opportunity to meet a great range of new people and was overall, a great experience.”