Perinatal science combines basic science and clinical research to investigate all aspects of early life development. These include changes in the maternal environment (for example nutrition) and complications of pregnancy. Research in this area focuses on the factors that impact a child’s long-term health, pinpointing the determinants of a long, healthy life.

An important aspect of perinatal science is identifying opportunities for intervention prior to conception and in early life, and translating these research findings into changes in clinical practice.

The Liggins Institute is situated at our Grafton Campus and is a centre of research excellence in the field of perinatal science. Based opposite Auckland City Hospital, you’ll be supervised by practising clinicians and widely published academic staff with expertise ranging from paediatrics to physiology. This cross-disciplinary approach uniquely places us to view human health problems from multiple angles.

A degree in perinatal science could launch your career in scientific research or prepare you for further study. If you’re a practising clinician, it will help you build research skills and specialist knowledge to advance your clinical career.

Note that Perinatal Science undergraduate and postgraduate options are still in the approval process.