Georgia Wilson
Research Assistant, Greenwave Aotearoa
Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology
The fieldwork, lab work and research experience she gained at AUT have prepared her incredibly well for her career now, says Georgia Wilson who recently joined Greenwave Aotearoa as a research assistant, primarily focusing on supporting the team with research into the utilisation of seaweed and hatchery management at Kelly Tarlton’s.
“My research experience at AUT taught me how to find, interpret and communicate scientific information clearly; all skills that will be essential for exploring how seaweed can be used in cosmetics. My lab work at AUT, both in class and in the aquaculture lab, helped me develop skills in microscopy, pipetting, system maintenance, dissection, data collection, attention to detail and problem solving. These skills will be incredibly useful when working in the hatchery at Kelly Tarlton’s for my role. My studies also included field trips including fish surveys at Goat Island, plankton tows in the Hauraki Gulf and assessing cockle populations in Okoromai Bay. These experiences have given me practical skills I can bring into any fieldwork opportunities.
“During my Bachelor of Science, I had the opportunity to work as a research assistant in AUT’s aquaculture lab, which provided invaluable hands-on experience that strengthened my technical skills and opened many doors. Another role I achieved through AUT came from attending the AUT careers expo in 2024, where I met Kirsten Norfield from Aquaculture NZ. She connected me with scientists in the aquaculture field, which led to the opportunity to volunteer at Leigh Marine Laboratory. There I assisted a PhD candidate with her mussel spat samples. That was such a cool experience!”
In addition to her role at Greenwave Aotearoa, Georgia is also excited to be chosen for the BLAKE Ambassadors programme.
“I’ve recently been selected to be an Earth Science NZ BLAKE Aquaculture Ambassador for 2025/2026. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I couldn’t have achieved without my experience at AUT. During this ambassadorship I’ll participate in the day-to-day operations at the Northland Aquaculture Centre, the largest on-land marine research facility in Aotearoa.”
Finding her path
Georgia says her fascination with the ocean started at a young age.
“I knew I wanted to pursue a career in marine biology. My earth science teacher in high school recommended AUT and I’m really glad I followed her advice. The smaller classes meant that I received a lot of one-on-one support, and the lecturers were incredibly encouraging and approachable. I also loved how much hands-on practical experience AUT offered. The field work made learning so much more engaging and exciting.
“Before I came to AUT I hadn’t met anyone who was interested in marine science, so one of the best parts of my time at AUT was finding a group of friends who shared the same passion for marine life as I did. Some of my most memorable highlights included working in the aquaculture lab, snorkelling at Goat Island and travelling to Wellington to collect seaweed samples. I also really enjoyed the Biology of Marine Organisms class – where, to my surprise, I discovered a genuine interest in seaweed!”
There was one lecturer who made a particular impression on her.
“Professor Lindsey White has been an incredible mentor. Lindsey was always approachable, encouraging, ready to answer any questions or talk through assignments, and he always engages with students sharing his passion for seaweed. In my second year, one of his classes helped me discover my interest in seaweed, and I went on to work for him alongside one of his master’s degree students as a research assistant for her project investigating Kina as a form of biocontrol for the invasive seaweed Caulerpa. I also did my final-year project with Lindsey, which focused on the reproductive tendencies of Durvillaea antarctica. These experiences helped shape the direction of my career.
“Beyond AUT, Lindsey has continued to support me by providing a reference for my successful BLAKE Aquaculture Ambassadorship application and introducing me to the team at Greenwave Aotearoa, where I now work as a research assistant. Without Lindsey’s support and encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Advice for other students
Georgia has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“It sounds cliché but it really is all about who you know, not just what you know. Lock in, build relationships, enjoy the journey and, most importantly, have faith – opportunities that are meant for you will not miss you. It wasn’t that long ago that I was working at a supermarket, literally getting emotional when a customer bought salmon because I would’ve much rather been working at the salmon farm in Marlborough than at a checkout! It’s funny to look back on now, but it just goes to show you have no idea what’s just around the corner. God has a plan!”
It's truly a blessing to now be working in the field she had long aspired to be in, she says.
“I’m surrounded by intelligent, driven people who share the same passion for marine restoration and ocean health as I do. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work we’re doing is helping to restore our marine ecosystems and raise awareness of what’s happening in Aotearoa’s marine environment. I love being part of the growing blue economy – finding sustainable innovative ways to use our oceans resources while protecting and restoring them for future generations.”
