Kieren Mitchell was born and educated in Launceston. He moved to South Australia in 2008 to study evolutionary biology at the University of Adelaide, which eventually led to him completing a PhD and becoming a post-doctoral researcher at the Australian Centre for Ancient DNA.
Kieren’s research focuses on the extraction and sequencing of DNA from recently extinct bird and mammal species from around the world using cutting-edge molecular technology.
While ‘Jurassic Park’ is still well and truly science-fiction, this DNA tells us a lot about past environmental change and the evolution of some of nature’s most astounding (extinct) creatures. The need for DNA-containing “sub-fossil” bone has – so far – taken him to caves and museums in North America, South America, New Zealand, and Australia.
As these functions are popular RSVP is essential by Monday 22 February 2016: Tel: 6323 3798 or email: bookings@qvmag.tas.gov.au (Friends please quote your membership number)