Neil Wedlock
Scientist
Animal Health
"A career in science is a never ending series of discovery."
Biographical Information
AgResearch Animal Health Scientist Neil Wedlock says his interest in science developed at an early age thanks to the passion and inspired teaching exhibited by his teachers.
"Thinking back I realise that I had always had an interest in science, even at an early age in primary school."
"I had a chemistry set and even my own laboratory, a shed at the back of the garage, where some 'interesting experiments' were done."
"Although I had an interest in science subjects during secondary school, it was only during my university studies and after I had completed a degree in microbiology that I really knew science was what I wanted to do as a career."
Neil, who has been part of AgResearch for over 12 years, says it was his curiosity that drew him to a career in science as he always had an interest in finding out how things work, which at times involved pulling things apart.
He says a science career is characterised by the need for a strong degree of commitment and lots of perseverance and provides a strong sense of achievement.
Neil says while the outputs of science are very important for the well being of people and the economic prosperity of New Zealand, science is also an exciting field to work in.
"What I enjoy most about my career is the excitement of conducting experiments, obtaining interesting results and then using the information to formulate hypotheses and design further experiments."
The day to day science activities Neil is involved in includes laboratory work, designing experiments, analysing data and results, writing reports and papers, occasionally working with animals and using a number of computer programs and analytical tools.
"As a molecular biologist in the Infectious Diseases Immunology group I am involved in a number of projects including developing a vaccine to control tuberculosis in cattle and possums, biocontrol of possums and developing a vaccine for mastitis in dairy cows."
"I find most people are interested and have some understanding of the problem of tuberculosis and in New Zealand possums have very few human friends."
Neil says his career highlights to date include the opportunity to conduct post-doctoral research in science groups in the United Kingdom and the publication of research work in peer reviewed journals.
"I still clearly remember the excitement of seeing my first paper in print and I have never lost the sense of achievement when our work is published."
Neil engages in a variety of pursuits away from work when he can and enjoys pottery and DIY work around the house, outdoor activities such as gardening, fishing and tramping in the Tararua ranges and being involved in his local church and the Levin community.
"My Christian faith gives me a sense of identity and purpose".
"I like the company of others but I also enjoy the freedom that the outdoors brings and making things with clay gives me an outlet for my creative side."
Neil says he fits his hobbies in around the demands of a young family and enjoys spending time with his three daughters.