Career-ready placements for Aaron opening pathways through Biotechnology

Immersed in a world of science and creating better solutions for global health systems, Aaron’s journey came to fruition during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unsure about his previous degree and frustrated with COVID-19, Aaron developed a passion for Virology, Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology which motivated him to switch to a Bachelor of Biotechnology at the University of Newcastle.

Biotechnology opens pathways for students into many industries, including but not limited to genetic engineering, pharmaceuticals, plant and animal agriculture, conservation, food production, renewable fuel development and waste management.

The theory and practical experience provided by the program’s coursework made for an enjoyable learning experience, with Aaron stating the practical lab work was the most enjoyable part of his degree.

“The [Physical Containment Level 2 (PC2) facility] used for the Bachelor of Biotechnology was a great resource for immersive learning when combined with the lab work that was given to us each semester,” he says.

When it came to ensuring academic success, Aaron utilised the University’s Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) which gives students extra assistance towards coursework and assignments outside the classroom.

“Those sessions helped tremendously in not only being able to pass, but to also excel. I would absolutely recommend the PASS sessions.”

During Aaron’s program he undertook a placement opportunity with Breast Cancer Trials.

Breast Cancer Trials (BCT) is a not-for-profit collaborative research organisation conducting clinical trials into the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

In 2023, BCT became a placement partner with the University of Newcastle. This partnership allows students from science, biomedical and medical streams to apply for BCT as a career-ready placement opportunity as part of their degree.

“While on placement, I learned a lot about the regulatory frameworks and ethical rules surrounding clinical trials – not just in Australia but across the world,” Aaron says.

Chief Operating Officer for Research at BCT Heath Badger states, “The career-ready placement program Aaron participated in through BCT has been extremely beneficial to understand what conducting and coordinating clinical trials is really all about.”

He adds, "For BCT, engaging in this program has not only allowed us to have Aaron join our team after completing his degree, it also serves to publicise BCT a Newcastle based industry that engages with the local community and offers employment opportunities for students looking to undertake their tertiary education in Newcastle."

Similarly, Aaron states that the practical experience this placement opportunity provided was a key stepping stone to working within clinical trials full-time after graduating in 2023.

“After my placement had ended, my plans for the future revolved around entering the clinical trials field as a Clinical Research Associate – and I’ve done exactly that,” Aaron said.

Aaron’s placement prepared him for further career opportunities and encourages future students to apply.

“Don’t be afraid to be uncomfortable. If you can’t do placement somewhere you want to, elect to go somewhere that you wouldn’t normally, you may really enjoy it and have a change of mind.”