BSc (Hons) Class 1 Biotechnology (2000)

Lab Technician, Mildara Blass Wineries, Coonawarra.
Science Student Advisor, Faculty of Life Sciences, UNSW.
Scientific Communicator, The Australian Museum, Sydney.

‘To be a good science communicator you not only have to understand the science but you need to be able to ‘feel’ it as well. The best way to do this is to actually be a scientist. A background in science helps you to understand what, why and for whom you are communicating.

‘What I communicate is limited to what I understand. My degree gave me all the basic tools for discussing and understanding all areas of science. It taught me to understand what it is like to be a scientist and how to communicate with other scientists using scientific language. I may not be using the scientific theory behind Biotechnology directly in my job, but I am using the thought processes and many skills gained throughout my studies.’

‘My job involves communicating the research done by Australian Museum scientists to the general public, school groups and other scientists. This ensures that the work done ‘out the back of the Museum’ is recognised and celebrated.

'My advice to students is that no matter what you do or where you go remember to treat everything as a learning experience. Positive aspects exist in any situation and even if you feel that you are not getting where you want to go, maybe you are just following a slightly different path than planned. If you are enthusiastic, remain open-minded and are willing to work, every possibility is in reach.'