Maurice Wilkins Centre (MWC) Biology PD Days 2026: Connect with top NZ researchers

The Maurice Wilkins Centre (MWC) has just announced its 2026 Teacher Professional Development Days. This is a premier opportunity for secondary biology kaiako to connect with some of Aotearoa’s leading scientists and bring current biomedical research directly into their NCEA programmes.

These free PD days are designed to support all biology teachers—regardless of experience—by providing up-to-date scientific knowledge in fields like genetics, immunity, and disease. Previous attendees often highlight the value of the high-quality PowerPoint resources provided, which are ready to use in the classroom.

The Maurice Wilkins Centre (MWC) is inviting secondary biology kaiako to join their 2026 Teacher PD Days. These events are a fantastic way to bridge the gap between high-level biomedical research and the secondary classroom. Participants will hear directly from leading scientists about contemporary research that aligns with the national curriculum.

The programme covers a range of essential biology topics, including genetics, homeostasis, immunity, and disease. Beyond the learning, these days are a great way to connect with the wider professional community and gain fresh inspiration for your teaching practice.

Opportunity Details

• Waitangi, 22 June, at Waitangi Treaty Grounds

• Auckland, 23 June, at University of Auckland

• Marton, 29 June, at Nga Tawa Diocesan School

• Wellington, 30 June, University of Otago, Wellington

• Christchurch, 1 July, Villa Maria College

• Cost: Free.

• Target Audience: Secondary Biology teachers (Years 11–13).

• Key Topics: Genetics, Immunity, Homeostasis, Disease, and Biomedical Science.

Enhancing your teaching with MWC Biology PD Days 2026

Every attendee receives access to the scientists' PowerPoint presentations and resources, ensuring that the latest scientific insights can be easily shared with your rangatahi.

• Prof Dave Grattan (University of Otago): Homeostasis: back to the basics

• Dr Hilary Sheppard (University of Auckland): CRISPR based gene editing for biomedical applications

• Professor Roslyn Kemp (University of Otago): Immunology & gut microbiome: Seeing the relationships to health and cancer

• Professor Justin O'Sullivan (University of Auckland): Genes to Proteins: Precision diagnosis of disease

• Associate Professor Shaun Lott (University of Auckland): Genetics, genomics & protein knowledge: The latest applications

• Dr Reuben McGregor (University of Auckland) and Associate Professor Julie Bennett (University of Otago): Acute Rheumatic Fever - Updating mechanism, vaccines & treatment

Registration

• Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/NHjCQAHxi0

  
  

• Tip: you can also access support through the PPTA subject association grant here https://www.ppta.org.nz/forms/subject-association-grants-pre-approval-form

  
  

• Pānuihia kia mōhio mai ai: https://www.mauricewilkinscentre.org/events/mwc-teacher-professional-development-days-2026/