Tane Butler

Growing up in Whanganui, Tane was always inquisitive about the natural world and wanted to understand its many phenomena, so science was definitely for him.

When he came to this University he decided to pursue physics and mathematics as he wanted to learn how to think analytically.

“During my degree I was given the opportunity to complete a 3-month summer research scholarship at the Robinson Research Institute. After the 3-months the institute offered me a job growing and characterising magnetic thin films for spintronic devices. The Robinson Research Institute is a world leading institute in superconductivity research, which we have right here at Victoria,” Tane says, “Now, I’m working on a project that has an end goal of developing the world’s first hybrid-electric airplane.”

Tane is now undertaking postgraduate research and acknowledges that the support he received during his bachelor’s was a big part of this decision. “The Āwhina whanau was amazing during my studies. It’s a great way to engage with other students through mentoring, collaborative study sessions, and wider-community outreach projects. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today without Āwhina.”