Course

Graduated with Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2008.
Currently studying Master of Medical Science through Charles Sturt University

Current Position

Laboratory Supervisor of QML Pathology in Gladstone, QLD.

Story

I commenced my degree in 2005 as a full time student. During this time I was fortunate enough to be employed part-time at Launceston Pathology. This allowed me to understand the practical aspect of what I was learning in the classroom and gave me an idea of what life would be like after university. My practicum was completed at North West pathology over summer before starting as a relieving scientist for QML pathology in March 2008. I graduated in August 2008 and was appointed laboratory supervisor in Gladstone in June 2009.

My current employer is QML Pathology. They offered me a scientific position without any graduate work experience and provided me with all the necessary training required. I was first employed as a relieving scientist travelling all around Queensland. This was a great opportunity and I recommend it to anyone who likes to travel and still earn money at the same time. QML helped pay for flights, food and accommodation and I found it a great way to meet new people. The other obvious advantage is that you are looked more highly upon by future employers as you have experience in multiple labs and can fit in easily into a new environment. Multi-skilled scientists allow for you to work in any department and can therefore gain an understanding of all aspects of pathology and also allow you to find out which areas you prefer to work in later on in life.

The major benefit of the Biomedical Science degree at UTAS is that it is AIMS (Australian Institute of Medical Scientists) accredited degree, which allows graduates to be admitted directly into the association. UTAS also has a very good reputation for training excellent scientists, and are always looked highly upon when applying for positions .I am currently studying a Master of Medical Science through Charles Sturt University by distance education. This allows for me to continue my education while still working full time. It also allows for publication of articles and recognition for work that you have done.

The opportunities for scientific positions on the mainland (especially in Queensland) continues to grow. If anyone is keen to travel to Queensland and would like to work as a scientist, then please don’t hesitate to contact me.