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60 seconds with ...Ros Gleadow

31 October 2007

Dr Ros Gleadow, a keen traveller, pictured with a Neanderthal Man model at the Neanderthal museum in Germany.

Name: Dr Ros Gleadow
Org. Unit: Science Faculty
Title: Senior lecturer, Science communication
Dept: Science Faculty for Teaching with a seat in the School of Biological Sciences for research.

How long have you been with Monash University?

Nearly three years!

Prior to working at Monash, where were you located and what was your role?

I have held a number of roles, but most recently I was a Research Fellow in botany at The University of Melbourne.

What exciting challenges are ahead in your current role?

On the teaching side, I am continuing to develop Monash University's innovative teaching program on the practice and application of science. Getting students excited about something that is also compulsory is always going to be a challenge. I am also exploring ways to expand the teaching of science communication.

On the research side, I am excited about my research project. We are assessing the impact of drought and atmospheric CO2 impact on the toxicity and nutritive value of important crops such as forage sorghum and cassava. The project includes everything from molecular biololgy to field work which can be a challenge.

What is it about your job that holds your interest or is particularly satisfying?

One of the great side benefits of University life is that you are always mixing with young people. I love teaching all the second year science students. The subject matter itself engages me and I always learn something from the students. But I like having the intellectual rigour of doing scientific research too. Working on something that has a practical application as well is very satisfying -- in this case, evaluating the effects of climate change on plant-animal interactions.

Of all the places in the world you would like to visit/re-visit, where is your favourite destination and why?

I love travelling, especially to places with natural beauty e.g. Kenya; Lord Howe Island; Baja, California; the Swiss Alps. On the top of my must-see list at the moment is the Kimberleys as I've never been there.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

Be generous.

What is something about yourself that most of your colleagues wouldn't know?

I used to work as an aerobics instructor.