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Oliver Linsell

Qualifications

Oliver holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the University of Otago, where his postgraduate research was on The Treatment of Neuropathic Pain with Cannabinoid-Based Nanotechnology

About

At work, Oliver coordinates the bioanalytical team and mostly focuses on method development and validation within the Toxicology department. He has spearheaded several key projects, including permanent methods for detecting negatively charged compounds (EtG, EtS, GHB, and some barbiturates), a refined cannabinoid method capable of distinguishing isomers and metabolites while identifying semi-synthetic cannabinoids, and an updated workplace drug testing confirmation method. He is currently working on validating oral fluid confirmation testing. Oliver is passionate about improving analytical methods that benefit the New Zealand public. He takes pride in supporting agencies such as the New Zealand Police, Coroners, and Pathologists with accurate, high-quality data.