Participate in a study , Kia uru hei ako

Do you want to participate in a study? These research groups and labs are looking for participants.

Research groups and labs in the College of Sciences are always looking for people to help with our research.

If you would like to join one of our studies or volunteer your time to help with a research project, these research groups and labs are looking for participants.

Decoding the DNA of working farm dogs for welfare and performance

Massey University is conducting the first genetic study of New Zealand's iconic working farm dogs, Huntaway and Heading dog breeds.

Our research recognises that New Zealand farm dogs are unique in the world. Little is known about them at DNA level as they're absent from genetic studies conducted overseas. Our study will examine disease variants and how these impact on work performance.

Indoor cats needed for behavioural research

Despite the number of domestic cats that share our homes worldwide, surprisingly little is known about their daily behaviour and how they spend their days, aside from that they sleep a lot. PhD student Michelle Smit is wanting to add to our knowledge and is looking for indoor cat owners to participate in a behavioural study which will help determine more accurate food intake requirements.

Food experience and sensory testing laboratory (Feast)

Help us make a difference! As a Feast Taster you will get to participate in our important sensory research and will be invited to attend various sensory studies throughout the year, such as virtual reality, discussion groups and lots of product testing!

We are looking for panellists who are:

  • aged between 18 and 65 years old
  • willing to declare any known:
    • Food allergies/Intolerances
    • Dietary requirements
    • Medical conditions
  • able to communicate in English.

You will be compensated for your time.

Sign up as a Feast Taster

Food Experience and Sensory Testing laboratory

New Zealand Indigenous Flora Seed Bank (NZIFSB)

We are always looking for people to help us. Join one of our seed collector's training events or expeditions – you will go to selected sites when seeds and herbarium voucher specimens are ready to be collected.

Volunteers are a vital part of the seed bank project and there is specific training available for those who volunteer to:

  • collect seeds (anywhere in New Zealand)
  • prepare the seeds for banking (Palmerston North)
  • germinate a selection of seeds (Palmerston North).

As a volunteer collector, you'll be taught the protocol for collecting and sending seed, maintaining the integrity of the seeds and ensuring the seeds will be viable to store.

Once the seed reaches Palmerston North it needs to be extracted, cleaned and dried in preparation for banking. A small portion of the seed is x-rayed to make sure the seed is free of larvae and that the seed is in good physical shape.

Our volunteers germinate a portion of the seed collected to make sure it is viable. This is the last step before the seed is banked.

If you are interested in volunteering contact Georgina Aubia at G.Aubia@massey.ac.nz

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Plant science research

Our plant scientists research and collaborate on projects in plant breeding, genetics, preserving plant biodiversity and conservation of New Zealand's native plants.

Partner with us

Collaborate with us as a research partner or ask us to carry out research on your behalf.