DNA Sampling

Research that utilizes genetic markers to distinguish species and access population structures among and between endangered or commercially important plants and animals is becoming more common. For instance these techniques have proved to be useful in fisheries management to identify breeding populations of fish, select desirable brood stock, assess purity of hatchery stock, determine genetic diversity within populations (and infer population size or viability) and assess species level genetic biodiversity.

How we can help

As DNA analyses become more widely used in systematic research, there are growing demands for access to our natural history collections. We encourage this use of the collections by the international, non-profit, research community, but the destructive nature of biochemical analyses demands a particularly careful review of applications.
 
Applications for tissue samples proceed in two steps.

1.  A list of specimens should be requested. This request may be made by email, or regular mail.

2.  Specific samples are requested in writing on the Application and Agreement Form and sent to the Natural Environment Projects Officer at Te Papa. Graduate students must submit a letter co-signed by their advisor, who will assume responsibility for use of the samples. You will be notified by email and in writing whether the application has been approved or declined.
 
Please contact us to request a specimen list and/or an application form.

Email contact: mail@tepapa.govt.nz
Mail contact:
Natural Environment Projects Officer
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
PO Box 467
Wellington
New Zealand