Non-profit's work is heavily influenced by kaupapa Māori
Chapman Tripp has announced its partnership with Mātai, a not-for-profit research centre focused on enhancing the capabilities of medical imaging (MRI) using advanced software and machine learning.
In a statement, Chapman Tripp said the partnership, led by partners Te Aopare Dewes and Justin Graham, as well as senior solicitor Rachael Jones, will see the firm providing pro bono and discounted legal services to Mātai.
Operating out of Gisborne-Tairāwhiti, Mātai is led by medical imaging academics and a team of national and international collaborators researching the use of cutting-edge technology to address issues that impact the community.
Mātai’s research, project work, and partnerships are heavily influenced by kaupapa Māori and a drive towards better health and social outcomes for the Tairāwhiti community and wider Aotearoa.
Chapman Tripp partner and Māori legal group head Te Aopare Dewes said that it will be “immensely rewarding to work alongside the team at Mātai as it pursues growth in the competitive medical imaging industry.”
“It will be fulfilling to give back to the community, while working in a developing area of law – the interface between intellectual property and matauranga Māori,” she said. “We are looking forward to bringing a lens of our traditional and deep commercial IP experience, combined with our knowledge and experience of tikanga Māori concepts as part of our Māori legal group, Te Waka Ture.”
Meanwhile, Mātai chief operating officer Leigh Potter said that the non-profit is “thrilled and hugely grateful to have the support of Chapman Tripp and their expert team, helping us to advance our research and importantly to protect our taonga and whakapapa as we grow.”
“We are passionate about uplifting Māori health in regional Aotearoa, and to enable a community to have access to our advanced technology and people,” said Potter. “Mātai is well placed to support regional economic development, including Mātauranga Māori, and to create a pipeline for jobs in the research, science and technology spaces.”
