Qualifications

Olivia completed a Master of Science degree with first class honours in Forensic Science, a Postgraduate Diploma with distinction in Forensic Science, and a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Chemistry and Biology, all from Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland.

About

Olivia started at PHF Science as a Senior Technician in the Drug Chemistry team in 2021 and has since moved into the position of Senior Scientist. In this role, she carries out the identification and quantification of samples suspected of containing controlled drugs, reporting these results for both evidential and intelligence purposes. Olivia also works with licenced Drug Checking providers to offer scientific support for the work they do in the community and at events such as music festivals. As PHF Science is also a licenced Drug Checking provider, Olivia is involved in carrying out analysis and reporting of samples associated with harm or that cannot be identified in the field. This contributes to Aotearoa’s early warning system for dangerous drugs, High Alert, helping to keep communities safe across Aotearoa. Additionally, Olivia manages drug-related data for the Drug Chemistry team and data requests from external partners. Prior to joining PHF Science, Olivia was measuring drug concentrations in the air from a central location in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. While methamphetamine was detected, the level was low enough that it would take an individual over 8000 years to inhale an active dose. Possible implications of this work could offer a complementary technique to wastewater analysis for mapping population-level drug use and supporting drug harm reduction strategies across the motu. Olivia continued to develop a passion for drug data, analysis and harm reduction, which are now reflected in the work she is involved in at PHF Science.

Publications