Graduate Profiles

Matthew Carson

Two pieces of advice that I will never forget were offered to me just prior to beginning Year 11 in High School. They were to make sure that you worked in fields that you were interested in, and at all times reach for the stars. Not only have I aimed at using this advice during my career but indeed all facets of life.

Importantly, I chose the Bachelor of Science Program at Adelaide University as the mechanism for attaining my goals. The course was well balanced, and at first enabled a grounding in a diverse range of science subjects before the increasing specialisation within my chosen discipline of Geology.

The depth of knowledge, willingness to offer advice and information, passion and friendliness of the Staff from the Department of Geology and Geophysics are all important attributes in teaching a discipline that allows for individual flair. I have always felt that my years at University held me in good stead for entering the work force.

Throughout my time with BHP in the Pilbara I have worked in a variety of roles from Mine Geologist, Environmental Officer, Planning Engineer, Quality Controller and most recently Project Geologist. The skills and knowledge learned during my formative study years ensured that such a variety of work opportunities were available. As I enter my seventh year of my professional career I can honestly say that I still enjoy my work and I continue to reach for the stars.

Erik Dunlop

I commenced study at the University of Adelaide in 1981, enrolled in the Faculty of Science.

Having an interest in many fields (but biased towards the "earth" and "life" sciences), my objective was to undertake as wide a range of subjects as possible before specialising in Honours and possibly beyond. This meant spending more than the standard three years at undergraduate level. Having the tendencies of a "professional student", I was not overly concerned about the longer time-frame. Subjects undertaken included geology, biochemistry, zoology, botany, physics, chemistry, computing, maths, statistics and astronomy. I even sat in on psychology and economics lectures. For two consecutive summer vacations, I gained valuable experience working as a petroleum geologist for Santos Limited - both in the office and in the field.

I completed the requirements for the B.Sc. after 5 years, majoring in geology and biochemistry. This led to the difficult task of having to decide whether to pursue more undergraduate subjects or to start focussing. Following much deliberation, I chose to do my Honours degree in the Department of Biochemistry.

After a rather intense but rewarding Honours year, and with a Ph.D. scholarship in hand, I decided that a break from mental exertion was necessary. This didn't last long because, shortly after, an opportunity for employment as a petroleum geologist arose. Deluding myself that a change could be as good as a holiday, I accepted the job.

Fourteen years later, I am still working as a geoscientist involved in oil and gas exploration. This occupation, which requires creativity and lateral thinking, satisfies many of the criteria upon which I based my undergraduate study plan. Data from a variety of different sources must be analysed, in order to make informed decisions in an environment of uncertainty. The job is office-based but there are opportunities to travel. Field work has allowed me to experience the outdoors - sometimes in remote and adventurous settings.

To students undecided as to their future study path, I strongly recommend taking advantage of the flexible nature of the Science degree to obtain as wide a background as possible before committing to a particular field. Science can lead anywhere. Include some computing (applicable to anything) and you will be particularly well-placed. Once in the work force, it becomes increasingly difficult to return to university. Make the most of the many opportunities available while you can. Build a broad foundation in the fundamentals. Versatility is a big advantage. This will better prepare you for whatever unforeseen employment opportunities and career options may present themselves after graduation.

Extracurricular activities are an important part of university life. I enjoyed considerable involvement in the clubs and societies. Much of this activity has continued to the present day.

Become fully involved in the university experience and you may, as I did, find it difficult to leave.

Jason Van Laar Hoven

I came to the Adelaide University in 1990 to study the Sciences, however, which pathway to choose was unclear, as there were many areas of Science offered to me at level I, from Chemistry, to Geology and even Psychology. One of the great things about Science at Adelaide though, is the ability to study a range of science fields early in the program, and then to focus your study into the area that interest you most in later years. With my initial choices including Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Geology and Genetics, I was able to narrow down my interests firstly into the Biological Sciences, and eventually into Botany and Zoology. The support of staff in the Department of Environmental Biology was particularly invaluable, helping me to make the right choices of study, as well as assisting in the study itself.

There were a number of post graduate study opportunities available to me after completing my degree, of which I chose a Master of .Science focusing on Environmental Management. The ability to begin my study in a general way, and to progressively focus my studies at the postgraduate level enabled me to find a career that has so far been both rewarding and interesting. I am currently working as a Watercourse Management Officer for the Environment Protection Agency.

The University of Adelaide, the Faculty of Science, and the excellent associated staff made the study of Science an interesting and rewarding experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a career path in the Sciences.

David Willoughby

My work requires my involvement at every stage of developing a new product for Faulding Health Care Consumer, from the idea, to the formulation, marketing and finally mass production.

The variety is what I love most about my work. In the 10 years I have worked in the industry, I have never been bored. I am always learning and doing new things that are both challenging and fun and I never know what to expect from one day to the next. I have also had the opportunity to work overseas and interstate with Faulding and it is a great thrill to see my new products on the supermarket or pharmacy shelf.

A qualification in Science has been essential in my current role. Concepts learnt in Chemistry, Physics and Geology have been particularly relevant, for example, understanding the physical and chemical properties of materials is important when making a herbal tablet or a sustained release pharmaceutical. I also learnt the ability to undertake many complex tasks and manage my time effectively.

I initially chose to study science because I liked it at school and one day hoped to invent something that would improve people's lives. I feel I have achieved this and to top it off, I have been granted a US patent for one of my formulations.

My experience at University was fun, but was a lot of hard work before I learnt how to study effectively for my exams. I am especially pleased that I completed my Honours year.

Nicholas Mumford

Science to me means evolution. Evolution of ideas, new technologies, new careers and new frontiers.

I started at Adelaide University in 1993, after residing in Denmark for 12 months on a student exchange program. The Science Faculty gave me the options and flexibility in study that I was looking for at the time. With their encouragement, I was led to explore different avenues and challenges of science. In my studies I initially branched out into many fields. These included maths, physics, geology, computer science and psychology. Unbeknown to me at the time, I was to follow the path of a Petrophysicist (which is my current professional title) by majoring in geology and geophysics and going on to do an honours degree in geophysics.

The knowledge of the staff in the Science Faculty and particularly the Geology and Geophysics Department aided me in my studies and future career prospects. Their close interaction with industry and up to date industry practices allowed me to have a realistic view in setting and achieving my study goals. The skills, concepts, lessons and ideas I acquired during my Science degree are still proving invaluable in my current position in the workplace today.

I would highly recommend the Adelaide University to anyone looking for a challenging and interesting career in Science.

Katherine Moseby

I always had a general interest in animals and decided to undertake a general science degree at Adelaide University majoring in Zoology. This course provided a good background in basic biology but it was during my honours year when I began specialising and gained experience in the field of ecology.

After working for Adelaide University and National Parks as a research officer studying birds and threatened mammal species, I am now the project coordinator of the Arid Recovery Project at Roxby Downs.

My science degree (and especially honours) has provided me with important writing, analytical and statistical skills which are essential for my research. My advice to anyone wishing to work in field-based ecology/research is to volunteer on as many surveys, field trips etc as possible during your undergraduate degree. This will give you an experience advantage over other students and will often lead to employment opportunities.

I would recommend an Adelaide University Science Degree coupled with honours and extensive voluntary field work for a good grounding in ecology.

Deanna Watson

My working day is never typical - it varies quite considerably. Some days I prepare documentation, including report writing, preparation of protocols etc, and other days I collate and analyse data. I enjoy developing new procedures and implementing them, and this is one of the things I find most satisfying about my job.

The skills I use most from my science degree in my job are report writing, data analysis, basic statistics, basic principles of physiology, and designing and conducting experiments. Second and third year Physiology gave me a good grounding in all of these areas. Physiology is a course that covers a broad range of interesting topics. It teaches you the fundamental principles of physiology and, on a broader scale, scientific skills. The staff were friendly, and always approachable and helpful. Completing my Honours degree in 1995 and being successful in my employment since then would have to be among my life's greatest achievements so far! I plan to work towards a more senior position over the next few years.

Source: Department of Physiology

Sarah Farrelly

I chose to study science at Adelaide University for a number of reasons. The main one was because science at Adelaide provided me with so many options and a great deal of flexibility. I had no idea what I wanted to do, I just loved science. I eventually chose to specialise in the area of Environmental Biology and continued my study to a Post Graduate level.

Since graduating I have worked in a variety of positions. While my expertise in the Environment has been important, there are many skills I developed during my degree that have provided me with opportunities to branch out and take new directions in my career. These skills have included teamwork, communication, time management, report writing and initiative just to name a few. In my current position I draw upon all these skills and also rely heavily on my science qualification.

I would recommend Adelaide Science to anyone who is looking for a program that will provide them with options, specialist training and the transferable skills essential for the professional work environment.

Philip Edwards

I enrolled in Science at Adelaide University thinking that I'd probably study Applied Maths and Computing in my final year. The flexibility of a science degree, however, meant I was able to change as my interests developed, and I ended up taking Physics and Geophysics as my third year subjects. I went on to do an Honours year specialising in Physics, and enjoyed the research project so much that I decided to continue with a Ph D. I happened to start my Ph D just as a new field of gamma-ray astronomy was being pioneered, and was able to work with my supervisors in this rapidly developing area.

After completing my Ph D, I spent two and a half years working on a similar project at the Institute for Cosmic Ray Research in Tokyo, and then returned to the University of Adelaide to join the CANGAROO project, an Australian/Japanese project which uses telescopes located near Woomera for gamma-ray astronomy.

When my fellowship at the University of Adelaide ended, I was given the opportunity to return to Japan and become involved in a project to launch a radio-astronomical satellite. This was quite a change from my previous research, although in some ways I was able to study the same active galaxies, just from the other end of the electromagnetic spectrum. It's sometimes said that an expert is someone who knows more and more about less and less -- but in fact the skills learnt throughout my studies in the science faculty were readily transferable and largely applicable to a seemingly quite different field of research.

Dr Karen Beck

My work involves policy development and coordination of organisation-wide programs relating to staff including recruitment. My typical day involves researching and writing papers for senior managers, negotiating with service providers (e.g., the people who develop our marketing material, who run training programs or who process applications for DSTO positions), developing and facilitating training programs for staff involved in selection panels, and responding to calls from supervisors and managers about recruitment issues or concerns. I also keep an eye on the DSTO Career Opportunities web page – where we advertise jobs for scientists and engineers (visit http://www.dsto.defence.gov.au)

One of the most enjoyable aspects of my role is an induction and orientation course I run for new graduate recruits. I love being able to help people straight out of university feel like they belong to the DSTO. Also, DSTO has laboratories all around the country, so I get to travel quite a bit. Finally, I like being able to put the research skills I developed at university into practice in a new and exciting field.

Oliver Carr

A typical day at work for me begins with checking my e-mail , phone messages and the mail. I plan my daily activities, and often have a meeting over morning coffee. I also attend research seminars and group meetings. After lunch my job involves programming, design and documentation.

The intellectual stimulation in my job is wide and varied and the facilities and conditions are fabulous. Travel is an option for people at all levels, and career advancement and courses are widely available. The people are fantastic. One of the greatest highlights is meeting some of Australia's finest soldiers and leaders such as Major General Peter Cosgrove AC,MC.

My Science degree has been integral in my current position, particularly skills in Programming, design and investigation of problems, along with software engineering principles such as time and project management. English skills of comprehension and writing essays and reports have also proven useful.

Camilla Dorian

In my position as a Technical Officer, I undertake a range of activities In the morning I prepare cell cultures and assist Honours and PhD students with their research programs. It is also my responsibility to order stock, check stock in the cupboards, clean glassware and make solutions. I also use cells for assay work, graph results, meet with supervisors and prepare letters.

Working in a friendly environment is great. I enjoy being of assistance to others with their projects and getting great results! Learning about industry and the government through research is also an interesting part of my job.

My Science Degree has been invaluable. Basic chemistry and biology knowledge, problem solving and team work have all helped me, along with computer and communication skills.

Sam Drake

My job is operations analysis, which means I advise the Australian Defence Force on the best way to do something. As I am working in the Global Positioning System (GPS) group I work on matters related to improving GPS performance and understanding its limitations. A typical day is split between attending seminars and meetings, informing me of the current state of affairs within the defence force, for example the situation in East Timor, and conducting research. My research is of a scientific nature but often involves contacting members of the Australian Defence Force to find out their precise needs. Typically I work with material which is classified as secret, as it relates to matters of national security. Once a topic is thoroughly researched I write a report providing advice to the Australian Defence Force.

The aspects I enjoy most about my job are the variety, freedom, and a sense of worth. I am given a variety of jobs to work on and the freedom to do them as I see best. When I first entered the defence force I had some concerns about its role in society. After seeing first hand its role in East Timor and in search and rescue operations I feel that my job is a valuable contribution to society.

Mathematical ability, deductive reasoning and presentation of scientific ideas (either orally or in printed form) have been the most valuable skills I have gained from my science degree.

Megan Morrissett

My day at work involves me doing oocyte retrievals, preparing sperm for egg inseminations and embryo assessment of quality and development. I am currently being trained to assist in transfers. We denude eggs for assessing fertilisation and prepare media for gamete culture.

Working in a team environment is great. Having a roster system ensures our week involves a variety of duties. I enjoy going to theatre to assist with oocyte retrievals and having contact with patients. The most rewarding part of this job is finding out when you've been involved in helping a patient become pregnant.

My science degree has equipped me with a knowledge of reproductive biology, along with useful laboratory techniques such as using a microscope correctly, pipetting techniques, calculating dilutions, maintaining sterile conditions and labelling of all test tubes clearly and descriptively.

Nicole Pelton

In my position as a Medical Research Scientist I am involved in the analysis of breath samples using gas chromatography, isotope ratio mass spectrometry and urine samples using High Pressure Liquid Chromatography. My job also involves data entry, analysis and presentation, as well as writing standard operating procedures and working to validate new analysis techniques. I attend project meetings with members of the lab working on various research studies.

My job provides me with the scope to be constantly learning new skills and acquiring new knowledge. I am often working on projects that no one has done before. There are many opportunities available to branch into a variety of different areas.

Mostly, I use personal skills acquired while studying my science degree, such as lateral and critical thinking, problem solving, research skills and how to learn and think in a logical manner. Honours was particularly responsible for this training. I also use specialised skills and techniques I developed during my undergraduate program.

Regan Forrest

I believe you get more out of a science degree than just scientific knowledge

I started at Adelaide University in 1992, straight after finishing high school. I was interested in science but wasn't really sure how to apply it to a career. I majored in Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, and in 1994 decided to complete my third year part time, over two years. For me this was an excellent choice as it gave me some more time to concentrate on my final year subjects, hold down some interesting part-time jobs and accumulate some savings.

I completed my Honours degree in 1996. It was quite a challenging year, and I learnt a lot about where my strengths and limitations were. After Honours, I wasn't sure if I wanted to pursue a PhD, so I spent a year as a research assistant at the Hanson Centre for Cancer Research. At about this stage I realised I enjoyed communicating science more than being in the lab.

I moved to Canberra to do my graduate diploma, and then came to the UK to look for work. For the past 18 months I have worked for the National Space Centre, a brand-new space-themed visitor attraction opening on 30th June 2001 in Leicester, England. It is one of several landmark projects built across the UK to celebrate the new millennium. We expect to see some 300 000 visitors annually.

One of my main roles has been developing an interactive exhibition gallery about the Solar System. It's definitely interesting work and has changed a lot during the life of the project. When I first started a lot of our plans were just ideas on paper and the Space Centre building was just a hole in the ground. Now we are working in that building, and the exhibition is growing around us on a daily basis. It's a great buzz to see your plans come to reality, and I have learnt a lot from being part of the team bringing together such a high profile project.

Some people might think it is a bit of a leap from Biochemistry to Planetary Science, but I feel I gained more from my science degree than knowledge on my chosen subjects. To get through my degree I had to be able to think logically, solve problems, think on my feet and be a good communicator. These skills are important, no matter which way you choose to apply your degree. And who knows what subject my next project will be on?!

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Adelaide University, learnt some good life lessons and made some fantastic friends. I would recommend Science at Adelaide for anyone who likes science and wants an interesting, varied career.

Heath O'Connell

To me university was a place to pursue my interest in science and maths. By my second year at Adelaide it was clear to me that I should specialise in Physics which combines them both, and by third year I was thinking of the giant particle accelerators overseas and wondering if I might one day see them.

Doing a Ph.D. in Physics provided me with an entrance to an exciting, international community. I had begun to read about the current topics in particle physics research and while working with my supervisors I was even able to publish some original research. With the generous support of the Department of Physics I had the opportunity to visit the universities and laboratories and talk with other physicists from Europe and North America, making some good friends along the way.

After graduating I began working in 1996 as a physicist at the University of Kentucky in America. I had the opportunity to learn about a new area of particle physics. Working with a group of physicists in North America, Europe and Australia, I was able to apply what I had learnt at Adelaide to this new field.

During my time there I began to see how training in physics can lead to other careers where problem solving and clear thinking are required. The skills developed in the study of physics such as computer programming and, perhaps more surprisingly, public speaking, combined with the large network of professional contacts, can provide a wide field of opportunities.

Most entry-level university physics jobs typically last two or three years so it is important to be on the lookout for new employment opportunities. As my position at Kentucky was drawing to a close I heard from a friend about an opening for a job running a computer database of particle physics information. I applied for this and was eventually offered this position.

My degree in Physics from Adelaide University has allowed me to travel the world and work in some very interesting places.

Janet Bromley

My name is Janet Bromley. I started a Science Degree at Adelaide University in 1997. I chose science because I had enjoyed it at school, but wanted the flexibility to try different avenues of science rather than immediately specializing.

During my science degree I studied many courses, including Mathematics, Computer Applications, Statistics, Physics and even a semester of Music History. However, I ended up majoring in both Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, and Psychology. I managed to maintain a credit average throughout my degree and had the option to do Honours in both Chemistry and Psychology.

Towards the end of my first year at Adelaide University, I was presented the option to apply for an Indigenous Cadetship with the Commonwealth Government. I had an interview during the summer holidays with the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (ISR) in Canberra, and subsequently won a position with them while studying. Hence I had support from the Departments during semester, with the expectation that I would work during my summer holidays and then full time with them on completion of my degree.

Due to the cadetship I was made aware that the Commonwealth Government offered Graduate positions for people who had completed tertiary qualifications. I applied in my last year of study, and won a position with ISR for 2001. I am now working with them in Canberra to complete my Certificate Level IV in Government.

I enjoyed my time at Adelaide University and found the Bachelor of Science program flexible enough that I could try a lot of courses and "keep my options open". Because of my degree I have found an excellent job straight out of University, and although the work I am doing does not relate directly to my studies, I have a wide range of skills behind me such that I do not have to be limited to one field of work.

I found support networks at Wilto Yerlo very helpful during my time at Adelaide University. In particular, the ATAS scheme was excellent and helped me with my understanding of the more difficult courses. I also found staff very friendly and good to talk to about my concerns I had during my studies.

Brenton Kroehn

Brenton studied the Diploma in Agricultural Production, graduating in 1996. He now works on the family farm in Waikerie as Assistant Farm Manager. He hopes to work in Queensland to widen his experience, before eventually taking over the farm.

He says the 2 year diploma course was ideal for him. It was interesting and has greatly assisted him with farm activities, management and I other seasonal work he has done.

"The campus has great learning facilities, staff are helpful and take pride in their work."

His advice to people thinking of studying agriculture is to "Find the course that suits you and put in the work. You can have an exciting and successful career in agriculture."

Julie Crouch

Julie is an agriculture teacher at the Cleve Area School. She finished her three-year Bachelor of Agriculture degree course in 1995, and then went on to take a Graduate Diploma in Education. She found the course at Roseworthy challenging but ideal for the career she has chosen.

She believes that although many people don’t think that tertiary education is necessary for a career in agriculture, today this is no longer the case. Julie would definitely recommend doing a course such as the ones offered at Roseworthy.

Simon Gierke

Simon completed his Bachelor of Agriculture with an Honours year at Roseworthy, graduating in 1996. He is now employed by Primary Industries and Resources as Property Management Planning Officer. Before that he spent some time working for the Cooperative Research Centre for Soil and Land Management at the Waite Research Campus, and at the University of WA as a Research Assistant.

Simon did his Honours project on alternative pasture legumes for low rainfall areas.

Simon says, "The course was interesting and challenging and provided me with technical and practical knowledge. My Honours year was particularly rewarding". He believes the degree played a vital role in helping him gain employment.

Jeanette Chapman

Jeanette completed her PhD in Soil Science in 1995, after spending many years teaching at the Roseworthy Agricultural College.

"I returned to study because I was interested in doing something practical. I chose to investigate how to dispose of waste water from wineries because I wanted a project which used science to solve an environmental problem"

Wineries used to dispose of their waste water into holding ponds (which gave off a bad smell) or local creeks and rivers. Jeanette developed a system of using soil to clean up the winery waste water. The water from the wineries is used on the grape vines or to grow trees, which are eventually harvested. The wine industry was so impressed with Jeanette's work that they employed her to develop a set of guidelines for the whole industry.

"It makes me feel good to know that I have made the world a better place. Without my research, wineries would have had to continue to dispose of their waste water in environmentally unfriendly ways."

Jeanette has shown how science can be used to solve real problems. What do you want to be: part of the problem, or part of the solution?

John Baon

"Being in Australia at the Waite campus was a really great experience. The facilities were excellent and I enjoyed the social
and sporting activities. Everyone made me feel very welcome."

John has returned to his home country of Indonesia to take up a position of Research Scientist in the Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Research Institute, where he does research on soil fertility in coffee and cocoa plantations, and provides expert advise to local farmers.

"I have attended many seminars and conferences, and have been appointed a member of the Editorial Board of Pelita Perkebunan, Journal of Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Research Institute."

Although John could have taken up a research position anywhere in the world, he chose to return to Indonesia, to help the local farmers become more productive and efficient. In 1994, John won the Indonesian Young Scientist Award, a just reward for his enthusiasm and hard work.

Catherine Davis (nee Finch)

For the past 2 years I have been working in Melbourne for the Primary Industry Bank of Australia (PIBA) as their Marketing Officer for Victoria and Tasmania. This involves organising a large number of sponsorships, field days, promotional activities and advertising with PIBA staff from our three branches in Melbourne, Warrnambool and Launceston.

I am also a Rural Lending Officer for our State Manager and Senior Manager in Victoria. This requires financial analysis of various farming enterprises across the state. My success in this job has largely been supported by the completion of my degree in the Bachelor of Agricultural Business at Roseworthy College from 1993-95. Roseworthy was an unforgettable experience and has given me the opportunity to succeed at something I have longed to do since leaving.

I would not be where I am today if I had not graduated from Roseworthy.

Jamie McMaster

Jamie studied for a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agriculture at the Roseworthy Campus, graduating in 1991. His studies focused on Irrigation, Horticulture, Soil Science and Marketing.

"I was fortunate enough to be able to participate in a scholarship exchange program between Roseworthy and the Colorado State
University, Fort Collins Colorado, where I furthered my studies"

Jamie came back and studied for a Master of Agriculture in Soil Conservation at the Waite Campus. .

"This was a unique opportunity to learn from some of Australia's leading soil specialists and to contribute to a catchment
management project in the Barossa Valley. This project was of considerable importance in terms of its research into nutrient
management and dryland salinity issues"

Since finishing his studies, Jamie has worked for James Hardie Irrigation as an Agronomist and in Sales. For the past few years, Jamie has been employed by Incitec Ltd., one of Australia's largest fertilizer and agrichemical companies, working initially as an Agronomist and now as an Environmental Specialist through the eastern states.

"The opportunities and training I gained from my two degrees has provided me with the skills and confidence to undertake a wide range of agricultural and environmental opportunities. The soil science training in particular has already lead me to work in soil mapping and rehabilitation of contaminated land."

Paul Nelson

Paul completed his degree with honours in Soil Science in 1986. From there he has travelled to Sweden, France and is now back in Australia.

"There are very few careers which give you the opportunity to travel as I have been fortunate to do. As well as having a great time, you learn a lot by travelling overseas"

Paul has done research into the effect of soil type on water quality, how soil structure is influenced by different farming practices, how microorganisms break down pesticides and has just finished his doctorate on how organic matter influences sodic soils.

"I have just got a job working for the Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations in sunny Queensland, to solve the problems of managing sodic soils under irrigation"

Paul's career in soil science has taken him around the world then off to the coast of Queensland. If this sort of lifestyle appeals to you, maybe you should consider a career in soil science as well.

Julie Nicol

Julie did her Degree in Agricultural Science at the Waite campus of the University of Adelaide. She says of the course:

"It gave me an excellent background in science and the different areas of agriculture. I especially enjoyed the subjects to do with plant
breeding and plant diseases."

In her final year of her degree, Julie completed an honours topic, looking at the a disease of wheat, caused by a microscopic animal called a nematode. The nematode feeds on the roots of wheat and can reduce the amount of wheat that can be grown in a paddock.

After completing her honours project, Julie applied for and received a scholarship from the grains industry to do further studies on this disease.

"I really enjoyed my years as a PhD student. My project took a little over three years and involved looking at how widespread this disease was across the state, and conducting field trials on how much damage the disease was causing. I love to travel and this project gave me the opportunity to travel around the country areas and see a lot of the state. I also got to meet a lot of the states top
farmers as well as scientists working in the field"

Julie was able to come up with a plan to help combat the disease. She collected wheat varieties from around the world to find varieties that were resistant to the disease. She found that a number of varieties from the Middle East were resistant, and this is being followed up by other scientists and students.

"It makes me feel good to know that the work I did in my project will ultimately help farmers grow more food"

Since finishing her doctorate, Julie has been doing some part-time teaching at the University of Adelaide. Her wish to be able to work with farmers to combat plant diseases looks like being fulfilled, as she has recently been awarded a travel scholarship to visit scientific institutions overseas to investigate possible control strategies for diseases of grapevines.

Update from Julie - November 2000

"I am working as a soil pathologist/breeder with CIMMYT International breeding resistant wheat varieties against soil borne fungi and nematodes that attack wheat. I have been based in Mexico for 3 years but next year will move to Turkey to continue my work with this organisation. CIMMYT is the International Centre for wheat and maize research for developing countries and works in 16 countries in the developing world. We have very strong alliances with Australia and particularly GRDC/ACAIR."

Peter Boutsalis

Peter did his Degree in Agricultural Science at the Waite campus of the University of Adelaide. After completing his PhD, he landed a job in Ciba-Geigy, a large chemical company based in Switzerland.

"My course has taken me to Switzerland, the land of mountains, snow and clocks!"

Peter has specialised in weed science, and is doing research into how to control them with chemicals.

"I LOVE this job! Research during the week and travel on the weekends. Last week I went to Germany, this week I go to France and next week....Italy!"

This is where a course in pest management lead Peter. Where do YOU want to go?

Michelle Edmondson

Michelle grew up on a farm and was always interested in the agricultural industry. She studied agricultural science, because;

"science seemed too general a course."

After completing her degree with honours, Michelle worked for the Victorian Department of Agriculture for three years as a pasture specialist, where she was able to increase her knowledge and skills. She now works for Monsanto Australia Limited as a business manager.

"The direction of my career is now more business oriented, but I still rely heavily on the technical skills I learned in my degree."

Michelle enjoys her new job, because it has plenty of opportunities for promotion and learning new skills.

"I am learning about the agribusiness industry and spend my time with retailers and farmers. I enjoy working as a part of a team who manage the South Australian business for Monsanto . It is a challenging position, with many opportunities for expanding my skills and knowledge. I meet a wide range of people in my job and I am always amazed at how many of these have done an agricultural science degree. You would be amazed by some of the jobs agricultural science can lead you."

One of the characters of Michelle which make her so impressive to potential employers is her passion for the agricultural industry.

"Agriculture is such an important part of the Australian economy. There is always an interesting career in ag!"

Teri Terrace

Teri studied at the Roseworthy Campus of the University of Adelaide, completing firstly an Associate Diploma in Agricultural Production and then a Bachelor of Applied Science (Agriculture), which she completed in 1987.

"Roseworthy was a great campus to study on and the experience I gained there has been useful throughout my subsequent career"

Teri worked for the State Department of Agriculture and then began working as a Technical Assistant at CSIRO in Adelaide on the control of soil-borne plant root diseases of wheat. Teri is now a Technical Officer based in Townsville, Queensland.

"My career has been interesting and fulfilling. I have developed a new method for assessing damage to the roots of plants by the disease Rhizoctonia. I have also undertaken independent research on the biology of terrestrial planarians, and now work on a project which aims to develop cashew nut production in Australia."

I have enjoyed the varied nature of my work, and being in CSIRO has allowed me the scope to develop professionally. None of this would have been possible without the education I received at Roseworthy.

Greg Pattinson

Greg has always been interested in the natural environments of Australia. He completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in wildlife and park management. After completing the degree he worked for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources in Victoria, in the management and control of noxious pests.

"I wished to increase my knowledge in soils, as I saw problems with the management of these resources. While completing a
Master degree in Agriculture at the University of Adelaide, I became fascinated with the microorganisms which live in the soil, especially mycorrhizal fungi."

After completing his Masters Degree, Greg gained a position at The University of Sydney as a research assistant, examining mycorrhizal populations in fields used to grow cotton.

He became interested in the mycorrhizas found in undisturbed natural environments and enrolled in a PhD, to examine the role of these fungi in the establishment of native plants in highly disturbed environments.

"Studying soil science has enabled me to have a broader understanding of the natural environments present in Australia. The study of mycorrhizas in particular has enabled me to investigate the best methods for the revegetation of Australian native plants, a field I find fascinating."

Many years of study has paid off for Greg who is doing something he really believes in, and enjoys doing.

Karla Billington

After completing an honours degree in Natural Resource Management, Karla successfully launched herself into the field of spatial information.

After graduating, Karla initially took a position as a research officer with the Remote Sensing Branch of the Victorian Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. While in this position she made image-based maps and conducted analysis on landuse and vegetation cover. Since then she has relocated to Water Resources Group in South Australia where Karla currently works as a Watercourse Management Officer, specialising in the running of a Geographical Information System (GIS) for the Riparian Zone Management Project.

"Skills that I obtained during my course have provided me with a broad knowledge base allowing me to apply the technology of GIS to land management problems and issues. I am very glad to have done the Natural Resource Management course. It was a very positive learning environment and has been a factor in the success of my career."

Nick Secomb

Nick grew up on a family farm at Windsor in the Mid-North of South Australia and quickly realised that he didn't want a job that would keep him in an office all day.

"The Natural Resource Management program offered what I saw as a perfect course for my situation. At the time it was one of the only courses in South Australia that allowed me to study conservation management while keeping my future options open."

After graduating in 1994, Nick spent two years in Jamestown working for the Animal and Plant Control Board. He then moved to Port Augusta, working with local farmers to control weeds and feral animals in conjunction with the local soil boards.

Nick has recently moved back to Adelaide to take a position with PIRSA, working on the control of the weed branch broomrape. He spends a lot of his time at Murray Bridge, studying the plant at PIRSA's quarantine area.

He says his degree has allowed him to develop a challenging and rewarding career and he says he has enjoyed working in different parts of the State.

"The most enjoyable part of my job is getting out and meeting local farmers to discuss their specific problems, whether it be rabbits, foxes, weeds or any other pest species."

Sally Abernethy

Sally has completed a Bachelor of Applied Science at Roseworthy (the course is now called Environmental Management) and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing at Adelaide.

Since 1993 she has been employed at Kinhill Engineers Pty Ltd who are involved with engineering, project management, Environmental management and monitoring and planning.

"Since joining the firm I have been involved in numerous projects where I have used many of the skills I acquired at university. What I really enjoy about the work is that it is always interesting and varied and I have learned a lot of new skills too."

The type of work Sally has been involved with includes: assessing the environmental impacts of developments and new infrastructure; the establishment and management of flora, fauna and water quality monitoring programmes; monitoring changes in coastal ecosystems; impact assessment and environmental constraint mapping; land use planning using GIS.

Darren Niejalke

Darren Niejalke comes from Pinnaroo and completed high school at Mt Gambier before joining The University of Adelaide for his natural resource studies. Darren now works for the Western Mining Corporation as an environmental scientist undertaking wildlife surveys in the Roxby Downs area.

"My job is to ensure that the Olympic Dam Mine can continue to provide substantial economic benefits to Australia without adversely effecting the environmental heritage of future generations," he said. "My course gave me the foothold I needed to get in to the industry."

Sharelle Hart

Sharelle chose to do a Bachelor of Agricultural Science because she was interested in science and the environment and felt that her job prospects would be better than if she had done a pure science degree.

She did her honours project in the Department of Environmental Science and Rangeland Management at Roseworthy on the diet of foxes and feral cats in the Flinders Ranges.

"I did five field trips to the Flinders Ranges National Park as well as laboratory work and liaison with farmers and government agencies"

Sharelle is currently employed as a Research Officer for Applied Biotechnologies in Melbourne, which involves research and development of control products for vertebrate pest animals.

"I enjoy working outdoors and being a part of solving some of our land management problems"

Sharelle has found the perfect job, camping out in the bush and at the same time, helping save our environment.
What do you YOU want to do with your life?

Tim Wilmshurst

Thoughts on Roseworthy:

Studying externally is difficult at the best of times, with the demands of work (to pay the bills) and fighting lack of motivation and accessable resources - it is easy to get side tracked. Fortunatley most of the course coordinators understand the problems faced by external students and were flexible on deadlines and helpful in suggesting alternative places to get information. The residential schools are well worth attending - not only for the social events but for the interaction and exchanging of ideas with other students who face the same difficulties. What you learn in those few days of residential school will help you to put everything else you've learnt into perspective which makes the rest of the course much more bearable! There is light at the end of the tunnel and if you are unable to see this light then there are plenty of people at the campus who will offer support and guidence.

After Roseworthy:

Title:Land Management Officer
Employer:Primary Industries and Resources of South Australia.
Duration: mid 96 - mid 98
Location: Minnipa Research Centre, Eyre Penisula.
Description: As part of the Eyre Peninsula Regional Strategy I was conducting research and demonstrations of conservation tillage techniques, with the aim of improving dryland farming systems by reducing soil erosion.

Title: Manager - Northern Region
Employer: Dovuro ( canola marketing and production)
Duration: mid 98 - current
Location: Wagga Wagga, NSW
Description:
- Responsible for canola seed production in NSW.
- Responsible for the marketing of Dovuro varieties in NSW.
- Managing 30 plus trials in NSW.
- Monitoring new varieties for potential release.
- General trouble shooting in any of the canola growing states.

Jennifer Schilling

Originally from Moculta in the Barossa Valley, Jennifer studied a Bachelor of Applied Science (Natural Resources Management) at The University of Adelaide and graduated in 1994. Since then she has worked as a public educator and has facilitated community involvement in environmental issues relating to the River Murray and more recently for the South-East Catchment Water Management Board.

Her current job involves assisting the Board and the community water allocation plans for the South-East in South Australia and get those plans endorsed by the minister of the day. It’s a challenging role, but one which Jennifer really enjoys. "Working collaboratively to improve the management of water in the South-East has been an extremely rewarding task. My time at Roseworthy has been instrumental in helping me build a career in a field of work that is both fulfilling and enjoyable," she said.

Christina Ratcliff

After graduating in April 1999, Christina gained employment at Primary Industry and Resources of South Australia’s (PIRSA) Land Information, a group within PIRSA Sustainable Resources.

As a Geographical Information Systems Technical Officer, Christina has been involved in producing computerised maps of native vegetation and soils.

Christina’s qualifications and strong work ethic have seen her recently win a position at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment in Victoria.

Her position as Project Officer is in the Land Information Group business unit of the Land Victoria Division.

In her new role she will be integrating GIS with satellite image interpretation to help solve environmental and natural resource management problems.

Chinh Phan

Chinh Phan is a University of Adelaide honours graduate in food marketing. He now is working in Vietnam with AC Nielsen conducting marketing research for global food companies such as Coca-Cola and Unilever.

"A strong science and marketing background has given me confidence and skills in logical thinking that are vital in working for innovative businesses."

Elena Arcangeli

Elena Arcangeli graduated with a Bachelor degree in food chemistry and microbiology and manages research & development, quality assurance and food safety at Balfours.

"South Australia needs graduates in Food Technology and Management with a strong practical focus to overcome its shortage of food managers and technical staff qualified in R&D, quality assurance and food safety."

Bruce Henderson

Bruce spent 10 years doing community work before deciding on a change in career.

"I wanted to work outdoors, preferably in an horticultural industry. I chose viticulture because it was an industry I could work in which didn't require me to own land - I could work for a corporate enterprise".

Bruce completed his Bachelor of Agricultural Science , which included two years of general subjects and two years of more specialist training. This included some hands on experience to learn particular skills.

"As it turned out, with the current expansion phase in the wine industry, I found myself graduating at a time when there is a high demand for graduates in viticulture. I now found myself employed in the sort of position I would have thought possible
only after years of experience. My employer has recently acquired a 100 ha property previously used for dairy cattle, cropping and potato growing. It is my job to establish a viable vineyard producing quality black grapes for the production of wines
for export."

"I have found the wine industry unrivalled in the openness of the people, their willingness to share ideas and help out and their friendliness."

Sue Bell

"Why did I choose a career in oenology (winemaking)? It's pretty simple really.....I like wine! My interest in the wine industry grew out of my fondness for wine. I observed an industry with a lifestyle and location which I thought was pretty good. I completed a four year degree in Adelaide which was useful because I was able to get work experience in the industry during the holidays doing cellar door sales, wine tastings, Gourmet weekends and bottleshop work."

"At present the industry is experiencing boom times, which not only means more wine, but more JOBS! I have made a big career move by accepting a job with Southcorp wines, Australia's largest wine company. I get to work at four sites, all quite different in their location, size and product quality. I get the opportunity to learn from many people; winemakers, viticulturalists, marketing managers, cellar hands, growers and laboratory personnel."

"I was also offered work in a smaller three person operation making premium wines and a 4th generation family winery."

"The industry is very close, but also very diverse. No matter where you go there is always much to learn and people in the industry are friendly, supportive and generous."

"I'm very lucky to have stumbled into a job that is also my passion."