From the tiniest virus to the largest animal on Earth, every living thing has a genome.
In recent years, genomics has shot into the public arena because it is used to trace the movement and development of Covid-19 as it has spread around the globe.
Otago Museum and Genomics Aotearoa director Prof Peter Dearden hopes to build on residents’ growing knowledge of the subject by running a new exhibition which opens on Monday.
The exhibit — "Genome, Science of Life" — featured incredible examples of the latest research, using digital displays and augmented reality, Prof Dearden said.
"Genomics as a science has already changed our lives, but it is going to have even more impact in the near future.
"The more we understand it, the more we can use it for our benefit.
"This exhibition seeks to spread this understanding."
He said all humans had a unique genome — a set of instructions that made us who we are.
"The exhibit explores this, from a Genome 101, to the history of the field, to what is happening in New Zealand, as well as the story of Covid-19."
Otago Museum marketing manager Kate Oktay said the exhibition featured large-scale digital animations as well as augmented reality, allowing visitors to watch chromosomes dance through the gallery.
"In 15 minutes, you will understand so much more than when you walked in.
"It is true science communication, and about something that is so interesting to so many," she said.
