Meet our student
Ms Yamuna Raj
Bachelor of Science (Animal Science), Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture Science, La Trobe
Scientist, Veterinary Microbiology
Course of study:
Bachelor of Science (Animal Science) 2006
Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture Science 2007
My intentions at the start was to do the first year of Animal Science degree and then to try and get into Veterinary Science at a different university. After a year, I decided that I quite liked the idea of being a scientist instead and hence continued on with the course.
Understanding and learning to do different kinds of tests at uni was critical as employers are keen to hire someone that have various knowledge and experience doing different test. Being hands on at practical classes in uni has given me a lot of confidence to learn the many new tests I have learnt at work. The most critical skill I have learnt from my studies are the basic skills. Something as simple as learning how to use a pipette and OHS was very important and I learnt that quickly as a science graduate.
Doing my work experience at La Trobe Wildlife park and work cadetship at La Trobe Farm gave me a lot of confidence in doing things on my own and being prepared for challenges. I also did a Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture Science to further gain some laboratory techniques, animal handling skills and I learnt to manage my time wisely.
Since graduating I have done various short contracted jobs as laboratory technicians working in different laboratories like FIBRISOL (food laboratory), DPI (bacteriology lab) and CSL (flu vaccine production). I have also done various data entry between these jobs which benefited my computer skills. I was at CSL for 2 years working as a laboratory technician before I decided to join DPI again in 2011, this time in the serology and virology/ immunology group as a scientist.
My current role as a scientist is to perform serological and virology work within the diagnostic group. My job includes testing for animal health certification, disease diagnosis and high volume testing for exports and emergency diseases in animals.
My advice to prospective students would be to never shy away from learning new things. Always be hands on in practical classes and be open to learning new skills and ask questions when you are unsure of something. Learn the basics, like using a pipette. Sometimes, people can get carried away with knowing too much theory but not having enough practical experience. What employers look out for is for someone that is self-assured in trying new skills and someone that can pick up any new skills quickly. Learn to prioritise workload. This is extremely crucial when it comes to meeting deadlines. Be open to different science jobs. There are many options out there and the most important thing is giving yourself the chance to try something new.
