Introduction to the Auckland Zoo Residency Program

The Auckland Zoo - Wildlife and Conservation Medicine Residency/Professional Doctorate program is based within the Veterinary Services team at the New Zealand Centre for Conservation Medicine – Auckland Zoo. This program offers the opportunity to work at additional locations, including Kelly Tarlton's aquarium, and related wildlife conservation and fieldwork opportunities.

Program Details

• The program commences in July, with the next resident to be appointed in July 2028.
• The Veterinary Hospital provides animal health services to Auckland Zoo, including preventative medicine, surgery, nutrition, reproductive management, quarantine, biosecurity, transaction health management, zoonoses, and disease investigation, and emergency animal care.
• The team aims to provide the highest possible levels of health care, welfare, husbandry, species management, and exhibit design for the animals under their care.

Focus Areas

• The program focuses on native species conservation, conservation medicine, ex-situ breeding, health and disease monitoring, and triage and treatment of native species.
• Focus species include kākāpō, takahē, kiwi, little penguin/kororā, and other New Zealand native birds, as well as native reptiles such as sea turtles, skinks, and gecko species.

Team Collaboration

• The team works in close collaboration with other organisations, such as the Department of Conservation (DOC) and MPI (Ministry of Primary Industries), on projects related to native species conservation.

Program Structure

• The three-year residency commences in July.
• A merit-based selection process is initiated in April, requiring applicants to have a veterinary degree registrable in New Zealand, a minimum of 2 years' experience in veterinary practice, and be a New Zealand citizen, or a resident or citizen of Australia.

Applicant Requirements

• Applicants should have a logical and evidence-based approach to clinical case investigations, a strong academic background, and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• They should also demonstrate good time-management skills, have the ability to work well in a team, and a strong commitment to the fields of zoo, wildlife, and conservation medicine.

Research Focus

• The residency has a strong research focus alongside clinical work, requiring the applicant to have previous experience in research or professional veterinary investigation.

Funding and Support

• Auckland Zoo's contribution covers the scholarship and project costs.
• A work uniform, personal protective equipment, and a workspace are provided by Auckland Zoo.
• The School of Veterinary Medicine and the Graduate Research Office (GRO) co-fund the tax-free scholarship of $43,500 p.a. over the three-year period.

Professional Doctorate

• The Professional Doctorate involves coursework delivered through Murdoch University in epidemiology and One Health and a significant research dissertation up to 60,000 words or the equivalent of 3-4 research papers.

Murdoch University

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Overview:

Murdoch University is a public university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is known for its focus on practical learning, research, and engagement with the community. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Murdoch University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

The university offers a variety of academic support services, such as tutoring, workshops, and online resources.

Career Services:

The Careers and Employability team assists students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.

Student Support:

The university provides support services for students with disabilities, mental health concerns, and other personal challenges.

Library:

The Murdoch University Library offers a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.

Health and Wellbeing:

The university has a range of health and wellbeing services, including a chiropractic clinic, counselling services, and a psychology clinic.

Sport and Recreation:

Murdoch University offers a variety of sporting and recreational activities, including fitness classes, team sports, and outdoor recreation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Murdoch University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:

A beautiful and spacious campus:

The university's campus is located in a picturesque setting, with plenty of green spaces and modern facilities.

A strong sense of community:

The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student clubs and societies.

Opportunities for engagement:

Murdoch University encourages students to get involved in research, community service, and other extracurricular activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Flexible study options:

Murdoch University offers a variety of flexible study options, including online learning, part-time study, and blended learning.

Personalised courses:

The university offers a range of personalised courses that cater to individual student needs and interests.

Career Learning Spine:

Murdoch University's Career Learning Spine helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers.

World-class facilities:

The university has a range of world-class facilities, including a veterinary hospital, a media arts centre, and a state-of-the-art engineering lab.

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Academic Programs:

Murdoch University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs in areas such as business, law, science, engineering, and the arts.

Postgraduate programs:

Murdoch University offers a range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and other research degrees.

Research:

The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on areas such as food security, health futures, and sustainable development.

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Other: