Department of Genetics

At La Trobe, the research environment is very friendly and I find it easy to work with everyone in the Department of Genetics. The research facilities are varied and continue to be added to, and I find them very helpful. Currently I am studying stem cells, particularly spermatogonial stem cells, in search of an alternative to embryonic stem cells.

I previously studied a Bachelor of Biological Sciences because I knew I loved biology, but at the time I wasn’t sure which area to specialise in. My degree helped me realise that Genetics was the field I found most interesting. This led me to Honours, during which I learnt what it was like to work as a researcher in the field of Genetics. I decided that research was what I was mostly interested in so I applied for a Masters of Genetics.

I would like to continue further with my studies once I complete this course. I am hoping to continue to a PhD and possibly a post-doctorate. My ultimate goal is to work in stem cell research either at a university or hospital, or even a private lab.

I undertook an industry cadetship in 2008/2009. It was a great experience and really showed me what it was like to work in the science industry. It was because of this cadetship that I chose to continue my studies in the field of Genetics.

The Bundoora campus has a very friendly atmosphere and there are always resources available for any situation. I am also friends with students from other labs and it is very interesting to hear about all the different projects in the department

I am very fortunate to be doing something that I enjoy and I look forward to what lies ahead in the future