WHEN Giorgia Kilpatrick graduated from Xavier Catholic College and headed off to UQ for her future education, she had no idea that her zest for life and focus on taking every opportunity that came her way would lead her into the nuclear workforce.
Back in Hervey Bay to present to Xavier Catholic College students as a part of Careers Week, Giorgia shared her experiences around her two-year graduate program with ANSTO.
After studying a Bachelor of Science (Majoring in Microbiology) with a Bachelor of Arts, she was excited to understand what a day in the life of a nuclear scientist looked like.
“I’m based at Lucas Heights now with ANSTO, which is short for Australia's Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation,” Giorgia said.
“ANSTO operates much of Australia’s landmark infrastructure including one of the world’s most modern nuclear research reactors.”
“It is incredibly exciting to be part of early career pipelines that will support the Australian Government with developing a nuclear workforce of the future.”
“This will include fields across science and engineering, nuclear powered submarines and radioactive waste.”
Yes, Giorgia does walk around in a white coat most days, learning and interacting with some of the top scientists from all over the world.
“When I was at school, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to head to university and see where that took me. It’s important to keep your options open and when you do, you have no idea what amazing opportunities can come your way.”
With her work at ANSTO, Giorgia will have exposure to research that will improve the health of Australians by supporting access to current and future nuclear technologies for diagnostic, therapeutic and innovative treatments for current and emerging diseases.
“There is a commitment to train early career researchers from Australia and overseas in the application of nuclear techniques to study environmental systems, as well as develop new research tools and products. That’s very exciting for future generations.”
Fifteen years ago, Giorgia and her family undertook an amazing holiday to all parts of Australia, but it was Hervey Bay that attracted her parents to make a move north.
“Hervey Bay still feels like home to me, but I have been given the privilege to join the two-year graduate program with ANSTO. The future is bright.”
