Thirst for Knowledge: Walking Backwards Into the Future

Where did the Pacific peoples come from and how did they settle the vast Pacific Ocean? While these questions have fascinated scholars for centuries, understanding the evolutionary history of the region is particularly important for interpreting the growing amount of genetic data that are accumulating for Pacific populations. For medical researchers trying to explain the high rates of particular diseases in Pacific populations, an understanding of the complexities of Pacific history is essential and requires a multidisciplinary perspective.

Come listen to how Prof Matisoo-Smith's group of researchers uses both ancient and modern DNA techniques to better understand the settlement, history, and prehistory of the Pacific and New Zealand, and what implications this has for health outcomes in these populations.

To adhere to level-2 requirements attendees will be required to book a table and can also pre-order their drinks/food (request menu on booking). We suggest people arrive by 5.15pm to find their table and get their orders in before the talk begins.

Please email Ombrellos with your number of guests to secure a table and specify "Thirst for Knowledge” in the subject line (no walk-ins this month): bookings@ombrellos.co.nz
First come, first serve, so book now to save your seat!

We will also be streaming live via Zoom if bookings run out or you would prefer to stay in your bubble. Register here to receive the Zoom link here:
https://otago.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUkf-ugpjkuHNQc09cVxGrkhXGRkrfGVI6W

Check out our Facebook group for more information: https://www.facebook.com/thirstforknowledge.otago