21 April 2026
The Maurice Wilkins Centre leadership team is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Saki Baleivanualala as the Centre's inaugural Pacific Research and Engagement Coordinator.
The Pacific Research and Engagement Coordinator role is central to successful implementation of the goals of the recently launched MWC Pacific Strategy - Tautai fa'atonutonu folau.
Saki will work with Dr Ofa Dewes, the Pacific Representative on the MWC Research Leadership Forum, and we look forward to seeing some great initiatives for our Pacific researchers this year and in the future.
Dr Saki Baleivanualala is a microbiologist currently serving as Associate Dean Pacific at the University of Otago. His work focuses on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the application of genomics to strengthen surveillance across Pacific nations.
He leads the establishment of the Regional Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance and Genomics at Fiji National University, a Pacific-focused initiative supporting sequencing, laboratory capacity, and collaboration across the region. His work aims to strengthen the detection and monitoring of drug-resistant infections while supporting shared public health priorities.
Dr Baleivanualala works closely with partners across the Pacific to advance coordinated approaches to surveillance and research. His current focus is on building sustainable, locally led capacity to enhance preparedness and response to emerging infectious disease threats.