Caitlin Hyde

Kia ora!

 I’m Caitlin, a PhD candidate interested in all things food and society. I have a background in genetics and anthropology (BSc Hons First Class, BA - University of Otago), and have worked in both the food safety and agricultural research spaces. However, these days you’d be more likely to find me interviewing consumers or tagging along behind farmers than behind a microscope! I seek to combine my dual passion for understanding science and people to combat some of the big problems our planet is facing. Right now I’m exploring the social and cultural factors around sustainable alternative food sources, to gain insight into how we might navigate these new and exciting spaces.

 One policy change I’d like to see: I’m passionate about restoration of ecosystems, so would love to see specific targets established regarding wetland restoration. Wetlands provide important biodiversity hotspots, carbon capture, and act as ‘sponges’ during rain and flooding events - win, win, win!

If I could choose one superpower: the ability to bring back extinct species (forget bike lanes, how about moa ride-shares!?)