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Fiona Hely

Fiona combines her mathematical skills with practical skills adding value to the AbacusBio
team in mathematical and computer modeling.
At AbacusBio Fiona’s work includes:
- mathematical and computational processes
- setting up and running simulations
- mathematical theory behind optimising breeding selection
Fiona has just completed a Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Computational Modelling
at the University of Otago. She first joined AbacusBio over the 2007/2008
university summer holidays, where she worked alongside Peter Amer re-working the mathematical driver behind the
SIL Ani-Mate software (a tool for reducing inbreeding and determining mate selection in sheep and beef). It was
a great opportunity to use and build on the skills she has learned at university, as well as earn a bit of money
over the holidays! Fiona continues to work for AbacusBio on the SIL Ani-Mate software and is also involved in
setting up and running computer simulations for other research projects. In addition, she has recently been working
on the mathematical theory behind optimising breeding selection in the aquaculture area.
Originally, Fiona was planning to do a maths degree, but was attracted by the mix of science, maths and business
that the Applied Science programme offers. “Instead of just tackling lots of theory, we also learn things
we can use in the real world, including a variety of management papers.” While majoring in computer modelling,
Fiona also takes papers such as Small Business Management as part of the degree and has room in her programme to
select interest papers such as sports psychology, which complements her other passion: running.
Fiona trains at the track or gym six days
a week with the goal of becoming the senior women's champion
in the 200m.
Contact Fiona
P: +64 (0)3 477 6375
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