Our people

The Analytical and Molecular Research Platform is staffed by a highly experienced team of experts who bring extensive knowledge in cutting-edge analytical techniques and molecular research.

With an in-depth understanding of advanced instrumentation and methodologies, our laboratory staff can provide tailored support for a wide range of research projects and clinical trials. Their expertise ensures precise and reliable sample analysis, delivering critical insights to support biomedical and scientific research.

The team's commitment to excellence makes them invaluable partners for researchers seeking high-quality, dependable results.

Technical Services Manager 

Eric Thorstensen is the Technical Services Manager at the Liggins Institute and the Analytical and Molecular Research Platform lead. He oversees the platform workflow and is always available to assist with analysis queries, particularly in human health. He brings decades of experience from his start as a lab technician. Passionate about mass spectrometry, Eric has trained numerous PhD students over the past 15 years. He is dedicated to supporting research with high-quality analytical techniques provided by well-trained technical professionals.

Lead Technologist

Chris Pook is a Lead Technologist and Senior Research Fellow. He is an expert in analytical method development with a focus on mass spectrometry and chromatography, particularly metabolomics. In his research, he applies analytical chemistry tools to questions of biological chemistry, focusing on discovering biomarkers of health and pathology. He is keen to develop and expand the applications of metabolomics to broaden the platform's existing suite and integrate them into multiomic analyses.

Senior Technologist

Hui Hui Phua serves as a Senior Technologist for the Analytical and Molecular Research Platform, overseeing the molecular aspects of the work. With extensive expertise in molecular biology, Hui Hui has a strong background in RNA/DNA/protein extraction, immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR, Nanopore sequencing, western blotting, and imaging analysis. She consistently delivers outstanding research outcomes through a precise and innovative methodology.

Senior Research Technician 

Chris Keven coordinates and runs the many thousands of samples processed on the Platform’s biomedical analysers, performs ELISAs, Magpix, and other assays, and provides data for researchers from the Institute around New Zealand and the world. Christine has a New Zealand Certificate of Science in Biochemistry from Auckland Technical Institute (now AUT) and has worked at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, for 35 years. She also conducts health and safety inductions for laboratory users.

Mass Spectrometry Technologist

Ramya Jayaprakash is a skilled Mass Spectrometry Technologist with expertise in handling various LC-MS instruments (Q-exactive and Quantiva) and analysing diverse biological samples, including human, animal, and plant materials. She is proficient in all aspects of mass spectrometry workflows, including sample preparation, instrument analysis, data processing with MS-DIAL, and data reporting. Ramya excels in extracting accurate, reliable data through meticulous analysis and ensures high-quality results in applications such as metabolomics and lipidomics. With a strong focus on sample handling, data reporting, and interpretation, she supports research teams in delivering critical insights and contributing to scientific advancements across multiple fields.

Instrumentation Technologist 

Kalita Prangnell is an Instrument Technologist specialising in liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). She manages and maintains the laboratory’s QToF, QExactive, and Quantiva high-resolution instruments. Kalita is highly experienced in biochemical analysis, focusing on metabolomics and lipidomics.

Laboratory Technician 

Laboratory technician Natalia Seabra provides technical and logistical assistance in the research laboratory, supporting the work of the Newborn Genomics project. This project uses rapid trio whole genome sequencing to identify genetic disorders in critically ill newborns. Natalia’s work involves various molecular biology techniques, including extracting nucleic acids from human samples, quantifying these nucleic acids, preparing libraries, and conducting genomic sequencing with Nanopore technology.