Rate My Professor Niki Hazelton

Niki Hazelton serves as a key member of the Electron Microscopy team at Otago Micro and Nanoscale Imaging (OMNI), a research facility at the University of Otago that provides advanced imaging support for multidisciplinary projects across the university. With an MSc in Zoology, she specializes in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, including serial block-face SEM, enabling high-resolution visualization of biological tissues, cells, fibers, and nanomaterials. Her technical expertise assists researchers in experiment design, sample preparation, imaging, and data analysis, contributing to studies in pathology, microbiology, dentistry, tissue engineering, and materials science. Hazelton collaborates with OMNI colleagues such as Richard Easingwood, Fátima Jorge, and Marshall Palmer to deliver training and operational support for state-of-the-art equipment like the Zeiss FEG SEM.

Hazelton is a co-author on several peer-reviewed publications demonstrating her direct involvement in cutting-edge research. Notable works include 'Uncovering mitotic ultrastructure in the native hair follicle using serial block-face scanning electron microscopy' (Journal of Cell Science, 2026), where she handled data curation and methodology; 'Beyond the surface: Investigation of tumorsphere morphology using volume electron microscopy' (Journal of Structural Biology, 2023); 'Nanocellulose Source and Morphology Impact on Properties of Composite Gelatin Hydrogel Scaffolds' (Tissue Engineering Part A, 2025); and 'Investigating the internal structure of sheep wool hair fibre using new microscopic techniques' (2025). She has also been acknowledged for SEM support in diverse projects, such as the impact of post-polymerization methods on dental crowns (2025), mechanical properties of additively manufactured dental models (2025), stability of optical properties in multi-shade dental resins (2025), antibacterial synergy between phage endolysin and citric acid (2024), DJK-5 anti-biofilm peptide studies (2025), prolonged post-washing effects on bond strength (2024), and polishing systems on yttria-stabilized zirconia (2023). Through these contributions, Hazelton facilitates advancements in understanding cellular structures, biomaterial performance, microbial biofilms, and tissue scaffolds, supporting the broader scientific community at the University of Otago.