Oscar on right path

Science student Oscar Fung is now more certain than ever of his chosen career path following a two-week industry placement at Grains Innovation Park in Horsham.

Mentored by Agriculture Victoria research scientist Piotr Trebicki, Oscar said he gained valuable insight into agricultural science in practice, which had cemented his ambition to pursue a scientific career.

During his time in Horsham, Oscar was involved in field and lab work including collecting pest and disease samples from wheat and faba bean plants and carrying out lab experiments.

“The highlight has been talking to staff and getting insights into their career pathways,” he said.

Dr Trebicki said Grains Innovation Park regularly welcomed students, recognising it as an opportunity to inspire the next generation of science professionals.

“Our staff also gain a lot from the chance it gives us to pass on some of our knowledge and skills, and to take a step back and explain why we are doing the work we are doing,” he said.

The stay in regional Victoria was also a new experience for Oscar.

Having spent most of his life in metropolitan Melbourne, he said it had not occurred to him that high-end science and research was occurring in rural and regional Victoria.

“I had no idea Grains Innovation Park existed... I applied to work here because I am interested in climate change and food security,” Oscar said.

“Country life was a new experience for me; I really enjoyed the friendly and relaxed atmosphere.”

Upon completion of his bachelor’s degree in June, Oscar hopes to undertake a Master of Science.

Oscar said he was excited by the vast range of science career paths but was leaning towards something connected to agriculture.

“The hard bit will be narrowing down my interests,” he said.

“I’m really interested in genetics, plant biology and food security.

“I’d like to contribute to a larger cause.”