28 Aug 2018
Bowral High School Students were provided with a guest lecture by a visiting natural products chemist. Dr Garson is employed at the University of Queensland and her main research fields are in the study of biochemical reactivity of animals from the marine environment. She has worked to isolate various natural chemicals that can be used in the medical field to improve the health of society.
Dr Garson’s presentation focused on her current studies and work as a university research team leader, the path she undertook to be in the scientific position she currently is and how Bowral High School students could achieve this. She also discussed the environmental issues associated with her studies and the requirements to minimise these. Students also learned how scientists work collaboratively together using expertise to solve more complex problems.
Dr Mary Garson was visiting the Southern Highlands as a part of the Southern Highlands Heterocyclic Chemistry Conference being held at Peppers manor house in Sutton Forest (26-28 August). A number of Bowral High School students and Mr Facer attended the Chemistry Conference to see first hand how Scientists share their research with peers and participated in a presentation from International Scientist, Professor Steven Hashmi on the use of Gold as a catalyst in organic chemical reactions.
Later this week Dr Garson is travelling to the University of Wollongong to present her research findings to other researchers and students studying in this area.