Lab-in-a-Box 2015

Students at Kaikorai Primary School gather around the Lab-in-a-Box on 13 October 2015. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

Genetics Otago director Peter Dearden stands in front of the lab at Kaikorai Primary School. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

Inside the mobile lab during its stop at Kaikorai Primary School. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

Six undergraduate science students will be travelling with the lab. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

Dr Dearden’s children cut the ribbon at the lab's opening. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

The Lab-in-the-Box is so large it needs electric winches to open its front door (not pictured). Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

It packs down and closes up completely so it can be easily transported. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

The lab includes virtual-reality goggles, precision microscopes and a 3D printer. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

The idea behind the lab is to bring high-tech equipment to rural communities. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

Dr Dearden said he thought the lab was the first of its kind. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer

The lab will tour nine regional towns around the bottom half of the South Island by Christmas. Credit: RNZ / Ian Telfer