Here is a blurb about who runs the society at the moment:

President


A/Prof Peter Mace

University of Otago, Dunedin
Term: 2022-2026

Peter is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Otago, where he has led a research group since 2013. Peter’s research investigates the structural biology of signalling by phosphorylation and ubiquitination, in the context of both healthy and diseased cell biology. He is enthusiastic to continue and build upon NZSBMBs proud history of supporting and connecting molecular biologists (early career and otherwise) in New Zealand. 


Secretary
Dr Daniel Pletzer

University of Otago, Dunedin
Term: 2022-2026

Daniel is originally from Austria and arrived in New Zealand end of 2019, just before the global pandemic put the world upside down. He is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Otago. His research group focuses on new strategies to overcome antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in ESKAPE pathogens as well as several infectious disease projects to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying how bacteria cause disease. 


TREASURER


Dr Peter Mabbitt

Scion, Rotorua
Term: 2024-2027

Peter is currently a Scientist in the Microbial Biotech team at Scion. At Scion Peter develops enzymatic processes for producing high-value products from biomass. This supports Scion’s goal of reducing our dependence on petrochemicals.  Peter believes that training Biochemists and Molecular Biologists in Aotearoa will be essential for the growth of New Zealand’s biotech sector.


Education
Dr Kathryn Jones

University of Auckland, Auckland
Term: 2023-2026

Kathryn is an education focused academic from the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland where she leads the BSc Biological Science Major and Chairs the SBS Education Committee. In the NZSBSB Kathryn runs the education special interest group. Kathryn has a background in a neuroscience research, and worked in the cellular reprogramming and gene therapy fields manipulating cellular fate with the aim to develop cell based models and treatments for neurodegenerative disease. Kathryn is passionate about biochemistry and molecular biology education, and has a focus on developing metacognitive thinking in her students, promoting active learning in class and building creative thought. Kathryn wants to build a community of educators, to develop graduate student and staff capabilities in teaching through professional development, research and mentoring.