Rate My Professor Joanne Gillum

Joanne Gillum serves as the Manager of the Genetic Analysis Service within the Department of Anatomy at the University of Otago. Holding a BSc (Hons) in Animal and Plant Cell Biotechnology from the University of Abertay, Dundee in Scotland, she brings extensive experience in molecular biology to her role. Before joining Otago, Gillum worked in a commercial genotyping laboratory and conducted research at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on developmental biology, DNA repair mechanisms, and neuroscience.

Since April 2009, she has been part of Professor Neil Gemmell's research group in the Gemmell Lab. In her managerial position, Gillum oversees the processing of diverse samples for DNA sequencing and genotyping utilizing the ABI 3730xl DNA Analyzer. She offers essential technical support to group members and has participated in multiple projects, notably developing Real-Time PCR assays to identify marine bioinvasive species in New Zealand's coastal waters and studying mtDNA mutations associated with male fertility.

Gillum has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications reflecting her contributions to genetic and genomic research. Key works include: "Hiding in broad daylight: molecular and morphological data reveal a new ocean sunfish species (Tetraodontiformes: Molidae) that has eluded recognition" (Nyegaard et al., 2018, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society); "Evidence that fertility trades off with early offspring fitness as males age" (Johnson et al., 2018, Proceedings of the Royal Society B); "Development and application of a quantitative real-time PCR assay for the globally invasive tunicate Styela clava" (Gillum et al., 2014, Management of Biological Invasions); "P2-229: The effect of in vivo focal cerebral ischemia on amyloid precursor protein processing and amyloid deposition in mutant APP (J9a) mice" (Fowler et al., 2008, Alzheimer’s and Dementia); "DNA repair gene polymorphisms and genetic predisposition to cutaneous melanoma" (Gillum et al., 2007, Carcinogenesis); and "Deletion of Genes Implicated in Protecting the Integrity of Male Germ Cells Has Differential Effects on the Incidence of DNA Breaks and Germ Cell Loss" (Paul et al., 2007, PLoS ONE).

Her expertise in genetic analysis supports research in evolutionary biology, invasive species detection, and reproductive genetics within the biomedical sciences at the University of Otago.