Dr Patrick McHugh will work with relevant community, national and international organizations to identify critical and important areas of health related research and activity where Mātai’s support can make a difference. Patrick’s role will enable a scientific research component within areas of need, while also ensuring that Mātai is part of a holistic approach to community health and well-being. This will include encouraging collaborations and innovations to support the discovery, implementation and testing new methods of achieving health and goals. He will also support the mentoring of students/trainees, and keep the community engaged and informed on Mātai projects.

Patrick is a Medical Practitioner based in Gisborne, a founding trustee for the Tairāwhiti Health Research Trust (THRT) and Plant Based New Zealand Health Trust, and a member of the advisory board of Inner Heart Solutions and the Heart Based Institute. He has a number of research and educational interests, and is a Programme leader for the Tairāwhiti Interprofessional Education Programme based in Tairāwhiti and backed by the University of Otago.