I was fortunate recently to meet many inspiring young scientists at a Melbourne University celebration for this year’s student interns and their hosts.
Professor Janet Hergt, Grace Day and I (pictured) each spoke to participants. Janet spoke on behalf of the University, reinforcing the value of internships in helping young scientists to develop. Grace made an inspiring presentation about her journey as a young scientist and the value of an internship. I shared the delight of hosting young scientists and seeing them both gain experience and contribute significantly to DRI – a true ‘win-win’.
Lily and Andrew (left and right) are our current interns from Melbourne Uni, with Jack from Monash Uni at the rear. They are currently working on two new projects for DRI that will be launched later this year. One is a new citizen science research project focussed on some very special dolphins. The other is top secret – stay tuned for some exciting announcements over the month ahead!
We already have the next group of interns looking at dolphin health and other research projects. We hope to also have some business interns to assist us to implement a new member database system.
What is exciting is that interns are wanting to volunteer beyond their set hours and intend to bring their colleagues to help us with research during the Summer holidays.
Thanks to Professor Hergt’s team, Marike and Helen for making it possible for interns to work with us.
I think our future is in good hands.
Jeff Weir OAM, Executive Director.
