Our Applied Science Facilities

The Herbarium

With a collection of 11,500 scientifically preserved plants, fungi, lichens and seaweeds, the Herbarium is where you’ll learn about plant specimen collection and preparation techniques.

Lots of important research work happens in the Herbarium including investigations into invasive and native plants and fungi, as well as the studies of an active lichen research group. There’s also the opportunity to voluntarily assist with accessioning and curation.

Applied Molecular Solutions Laboratory

If you’re interested in the inner workings of animals and plants, this lab is fully equipped for DNA extraction and analysis.

Second year Bachelor of Applied Science students gain first-hand experience in the lab and in their third year (if they take on a research project that utilises molecular techniques), this lab will become their second home.

Some cool research projects currently on the go include DNA barcoding of possible biological control agents, bioremediation of contaminated soils, and the molecular analysis of seabird diets.

The GIS Laboratory

Where science meets tech, the Geographic Information System (GIS) Laboratory has 40 workstations complete with industry standard ArcGIS and associated software.

Running on high-performance Graphics Processing Units on Virtual Device Interfaces, with large 24-inch monitors, these computers can run realistic 3D modelling, spatial analysis, image rendering, and other computing intensive tasks.