Opening doors to the next wave of scientists
Monash BDI PhD student, Jaber Firas, talking about his research to
high-school students
The Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute (BDI) successfully hosted a number of school group visits this month, showcasing its research work to nearly 200 Year 10-12 students.
The visits were designed to inspire young minds and interest students in pursuing careers in biomedical science.
Monash BDI participated in the National Youth Science Forum on 7 July, which brought high-achieving Year 12 students from across Australia with a specific interest in the sciences to various campuses and faculties. About 20 students came to Monash University for a full day of activities and tours, which included the visit to Monash BDI, followed by time spent in the Science and Engineering faculties.
Jaber Firas, a PhD student whose research was part of a breakthrough paper published in Nature Genetics on the reprogramming of stem cells, and undergraduate student Tom Freeman, hosted the tour. Jaber and Tom guided the students as they explored the Discoveries Exhibition and completed a "scavenger hunt", in which they solved questions relating to Monash BDI stories of discovery from information in the interactive displays. The students also played an interactive reprogramming game based on Jaber's research. The two presenters spoke of their own experiences and what inspired them to pursue careers in science.
The Institute also hosted campus tours organised by the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences Student Recruitment Team. The tours, which ran for about half an hour on four days, included an exploration of the Discoveries Exhibition, and explanation of the BDI’s research programs and facilities, and biomed courses.
Research Program Facilitator, Dr Claudia Del Campo, said both events had proved very successful with the students, who enjoyed their interactive activities and fully exploring the Discoveries Exhibition, including the holographic displays, 3D printed models and movement-activated timeline.
“The students were very engaged, very curious, excited to be seeing everything and asking lots of questions,” Dr Del Campo said.
The visits were part of new initiatives by the Monash BDI to reach out to prospective students and engage with the wider community. They add to the activities of the outreach education team, which takes BDI science to classrooms around Victoria. More events at the institute are planned for students during National Science Week (12 -20 August).
For more information, contact Dr Del Campo (Claudia.del.campo@monash.edu)