A unique Adelaide University program is encouraging regional South Australian high school students to swap their classroom for a science lab, in the hope of inspiring the next generation to pursue a career in medical research.
Students from Years 10-12 can now apply for the Future in Focus Work Experience Program and see for themselves the groundbreaking science happening at Robinson Research Institute.
During the five-day program, participants will get hands-on experience in the world-class research facility and learn more about fertility, genetics and reproductive health from leading scientists and doctors.
“This is a rare opportunity to step into the cutting-edge world of medical research and see firsthand how science is improving health outcomes at all stages of life – right from the very beginnings through to early childhood and beyond,” said Professor David MacIntyre, Director of Adelaide University’s Robinson Research Institute.
“By opening our labs to South Australian students, we hope to help them discover the exciting future career pathways that exist in the fields of STEM and medical research and, in doing so, improve health outcomes for future generations.”
Students will be able to connect with researchers, learn how to design and present their own projects and gain an insight into the most pressing medical issues and groundbreaking advances at the annual Robinson Research Institute Symposium.
Ruby Gamlin, a year 12 student from Port Lincoln, has participated in the Future in Focus Work Experience Program and said it was a highly valuable experience.
“I found the program deeply insightful, engaging and hands-on. I was able to learn so much about medical research in reproductive health directly from the professionals in the field,” Ruby said.
“It was incredible to see the connection between the science, technology and the human impact in action as health professionals quietly collaborated to care for premature babies.
“This unforgettable experience has opened my eyes to how truly broad and diverse careers in STEM are. I am now more interested in health research, which was an area I hadn’t really considered prior.”
For the first time, regional students will be eligible to apply for the College of Health Future in Focus Travel Scholarship of up to $3,500 to assist with travel and accommodation costs.
Applications are also open for the Future in Focus Scholarship, with up to $2,000 available over two years to help eligible South Australian public high school students cover essential expenses like tuition fees, IT equipment and uniforms. The recipient will be invited to join the work experience program and visit Robinson Research Institute.
The Future in Focus Work Experience Program will run from 30 November to 4 December 2026.
Applicants can visit Future in Focus for more information on how to apply and eligibility criteria. Applications close on August 21.