Pacific genetics scholar driven to improve community health outcomes

Doctoral candidate Dougie ‘Atiola’s journey into biomedical research at the University of Auckland began as a patient in a hospital ward in Tonga.

At the age of fourteen, he was hospitalised with meningitis - an experience that required extensive treatment and recovery; it shaped his understanding of the importance of quality healthcare. What began as a childhood illness became the catalyst for a lifelong commitment to improving health outcomes for Pacific communities.

Dougie traces his whakapapa to the villages of Hofoa and Kolomotu‘a through his father Alifeleti ‘Atiola, and Kolonga and Vaini through his mother ‘Aioema ‘Atiola. The second youngest of seven children, he grew up in a household where education and church were central pillars of family life. Both parents were high school and tertiary educators, while his father also served for many years as a minister in the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga.

“That environment made education feel natural, not forced,” he says. “Learning was something we were encouraged to pursue as a way of serving others.”

After graduating from Tupou College, Toloa in 2012, Dougie moved to Aotearoa New Zealand to continue his studies. He completed a Certificate in Health Science at the University of Auckland before enrolling in the Biomedical pathway, initially aspiring to enter medical school. When that pathway didn’t eventuate, Dougie chose the longer route - completing a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science, a decision that would ultimately reshape his future.

It was during his undergraduate studies that Dougie was introduced to biomedical research through Associate Professor Troy Merry and the CREBRF Study, now known as the Deep Phenotype Study, which examines how genetic variants in Polynesian populations relate to metabolic conditions.

“That was a turning point,” he says. “I realised that becoming a doctor isn’t the only way to improve health outcomes for our people. Research is another powerful pathway.”

That insight led Dougie into postgraduate study, completing a Masters degree with First Class Honours, and later embarking on a PhD in Biomedical Science, specialising in genetics and metabolic conditions within the Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology. His doctoral research is supported by a supervisory team including Professor Peter Shepherd, Associate Professor Troy Merry, Dr Chris Hedges, Dr Natalie Netzler, and long time mentor and advisor, Dr Chris Puli‘uvea.

Representation matters

Dougie says pursuing a doctorate is not just a personal milestone - it’s about visibility, leadership, and “smashing the brown ceiling” in academia.

“Representation matters,” he says. “Māori and Pacific voices don’t just belong in these spaces - we should be leading in them.”

Alongside his research, Dougie actively supports other Māori and Pacific students, sharing his experiences and mentoring where he can. He hopes his journey shows younger Pacific people, particularly those who grew up in Pacific nations outside Aotearoa, that a future in research is both possible and meaningful.

“So many of us grow up thinking the only options in health will be medicine or nursing,” he says. “Research is another way to make real change, and our perspectives are needed.”

Village of support

Behind Dougie’s academic success is what he describes as a strong village of support. His family has walked alongside him at every stage, and he pays particular tribute to his wife Losaline ‘Atiola for her constant encouragement through the demands of postgraduate study. He also acknowledges the guidance of his supervisors and the enduring influence of mentor Dr Puli‘uvea, who was also his Year 13 teacher back in Tonga.

Looking ahead, Dougie hopes to secure funding to continue building his research career. His long term aspiration is to remain in academia, contributing Pacific-led science that delivers tangible benefits for communities across the Moana.

“If my journey helps even one young Pacific person believe they belong in research,” he says, “then the work I’m doing is serving its purpose.”