Scholarship overview
Key facts
Application dates
Background. New Zealand in one of a small number of countries providing velvet antler (VA) to the international market. Harvesting of VA is strictly controlled and underpinned by veterinary involvement with analgesia and best practice guidelines (National Velvetting Standards Body). Collectively, these measures maintain NZ public and international consumer confidence that animal welfare is upheld.
Project: Relatively little is known about wound healing following VA removal. This is in contrast with knowledge about the therapeutic, anti-inflammatory and nutraceutical potential of the product. Furthermore, stem cell biology puts VA in a class of its own for pluri-potency making a continuing market for VA likely.
The noxious stimulus of amputation is mitigated by local analgesia with behaviour studies suggesting short term adverse effects to deer. The Deer Industry of New Zealand (DINZ) and the veterinary profession perceive an advantage in further investigating biological markers of inflammation and the early phase of wound healing. Inflammation is associated with pain. By looking at the rise and fall of different acute phase markers of inflammation, following VA removal, we hope to determine if these markers have a place in future research. We also want to document the pattern/s of wound stabilization and healing, given the exposed nature of the site and general exposure to the environment in NZ husbandry settings.
Funding and other support: A stipend of $2000 / month is offered by DINZ to study full-time. The deer industry has also provided a realistic budget for research consumables and conference attendance / travel. Total package $55,000. This research project already has a VA tissue bank and blood samples obtained at trial (Animal ethics approved). These materials support several possible investigations.
Personnel involved: The applicant will work closely alongside a supervisor from the Pathobiology group, Dr Matthew Perrott. Matthew runs the research histology lab, supporting diagnostic pathologists and the wider research community. School of Veterinary Science clinical expertise in ruminant production and reproduction is represented (Dr Lisanne Fermin) as is input from the Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre (Dr Preet Singh). Scientific liaison for DINZ is provided to ensure industry representation and feedback (Emil Murphy).
Who we're looking for
This project will appeal to veterinary graduates working with livestock species or with this background and looking for new directions. Graduates with an Agriculture / Livestock sector background and an interest in the rural economy are also welcome to apply. Experience of the deer industry and experience with project work is an advantage.
The candidate will be expected to learn and apply research techniques related to histology and tissue analysis. Previous exposure to research and laboratory techniques is an advantage. The applicant will be expected to be fluent in English, able to undertake a literature review and write up their research to Master of Veterinary studies level (120 credit thesis). Course work related to the research project runs alongside (60 credits). Results must be communicated to the Deer Industry of New Zealand and impact statements developed that align with the direction of science in New Zealand.
Citizenship status: Research stipend open to candidates of all nationalities
Students must indicate current VISA status and anticipated changes. Students wishing to pay international fees must not engage in more than 20 hours of fulltime work in support of their studies.
Application checklist
Include the following with your application:
- application letter indicating suitability and intent
- CV including contact details of most recent employer/s
- two referees or references. This can be either a pre-existing statement or contact details
- IELTS score – if appropriate
About the sponsor
Deer Industry New Zealand
Deer Industry New Zealand undertakes a range of programmes on behalf of all stakeholders in the NZ deer farming industry: farmers, processors and marketers. It is funded by levies on velvet, paid by farmers and on venison, paid equally by farmers and processors.