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Monash University > News and Events > Monash Memo
Scientists reach out to students
11 November 2009
More than 40 Monash scientists are participating in the CSIRO's Scientists in Schools program, inspiring young people to pursue a career in science.
The program is designed to provide primary and secondary school students with access to scientists and mathematicians in their classrooms. It also provides scientists with the opportunity to give back to the community and work with teachers to develop science-specific curriculum.
The Monash participants come from the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Engineering.
Dr Michelle Dunstone from the Department of Microbiology said it was a great to take the lab to the classroom.
"Can performing experiments in front of 200 primary school students be scary and exhausting? Yes. And did my first display experiment fail? Yes.
"Despite this my first day performing experiments for primary school students was an extremely rewarding experience and a highlight of my science career," she said.
Jerani Pettikiriarachchi from the Department of Materials Engineering said working with students was very rewarding.
"I developed new contacts within the university in order to organise tours and practicals, learnt about other faculties and facilities, got to present my work and improve my communication skills," she said.
"However the most rewarding experience was the students' inquisitiveness as they enjoyed the activities I had organised."
Dr Tim Moss from the Department of Physiology said the program allowed him to express his enthusiasm for science.
"I come away from the school feeling refreshed and enthusiastic about my own research. I also feel a bit like a rock star for a while."
The program is currently looking for Monash scientists to participate.
An information session for Monash interested staff will be held from 1-2 pm, Wednesday 18 November at the S1 Lecture Theatre (Building 25), Clayton campus.
For more information visit the Scientist in Schools website.
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