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About Us: Translational Ear Physiology Laboratory & Team

About Us: Translational Ear Physiology Laboratory & Team

About us: 

The Translational Ear Physiology Lab, based in the Department of Physiology at the University of Auckland, conducts laboratory-based research on inner ear and auditory physiology. We generate unique biomedical knowledge with clear clinical relevance and long-term purpose to improve hearing health. Our team collaborates with physicists, neurotologists, and Kaupapa Māori experts across Aotearoa to advance solutions for sensorineural hearing loss.

What our team indicated in the survey as important for us as the team. (2025)

Vision: 

To enable better hearing health for future generations by creating innovative biomedical solutions for diagnosing and treating inner ear disorders — from Aotearoa, to the world.

Mission:

We generate new biomedical knowledge of the inner ear with a clear focus on clinical relevance and pathways to impact.

Goals:

  • Stay at the forefront of science: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the field and identify research gaps by reading literature, sharing insights in lab meetings, and engaging in seminars/conferences.
  • Produce quality science: Conduct rigorous, innovative experiments with focused effort, clear communication, and mutual support, while seeking creative solutions to challenges.
  • Ensure clinical and community relevance: Track clinical literature and nurture collaborations with clinicians, communities, and partners to maximise translational impact.

Strategy

  • Parallel models & boutique approach: Leverage clinically relevant large animal models in parallel with human tissues, applying molecular, physiological, and imaging techniques to generate insights that cannot be achieved by one approach alone.
  • Growth: Continually expand our individual and collective expertise to collaborate effectively across disciplines — from physics to neurotology to Kaupapa Māori health — bringing fresh perspectives into our research.
  • Unique project edge: Design and execute focused projects with clear novelty and a translational pathway, ensuring each project has a distinctive contribution that advances the field.

Values: 

  • Safety: We foster a safe environment for learning, growth, and well-being.
  • Transparency: We commit to clear communication, fairness, and openness.
  • Respect: We respect each other, our collaborators, and the communities we serve.
  • Growth & Autonomy: We support continuous learning and empower each other to explore, take initiative, and develop unique strengths.
  • Fun & Excitement: We embrace curiosity, creativity, and the joy of discovery — because excitement drives progress.

Websites:

Phyical location:

We are located on the 4th floor, Building 502, Grafton campus, the University of Auckland.
85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand
Postcode: 1023

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