Rachel Evans

Even as an undergraduate student, Rachel was able to work alongside researchers in a lab at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.

Research opportunities are available to students at all levels. So no matter where you are you in your degree, you can get involved in different areas of science, career opportunities and even research. Even as an undergraduate student, Rachel was able to work alongside researchers in a lab at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.

“I participated in the Metcalf Scholarship Program, which I heard about through the Bachelor of Science newsletter. This scholarship has provided me with a paid placement at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. Specifically, I have been working in a laboratory in the Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence division at WEHI, contributing to work on the COVID Profile study. This has been an amazing experience, as I have been able to gain valuable laboratory experience and learn from leading researchers.

My roles include assisting with the processing of samples collected from participants who were previously infected with COVID-19 and the analysis of these samples. I have loved applying my knowledge of immunology and biology more broadly to a real-world application and have gained valuable laboratory skills.

This placement has been a very inspiring and rewarding experience. It has been amazing to see how researchers apply their knowledge of science to addressing real world problems to improve health outcomes. Through this placement I have confirmed that I would like to pursue further study in immunology and have learned about many of the pathways and opportunities available in this area."

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