Jonathon's Rhodes lead to Oxford

Scholarships

Jonathan Webb, from the School of Molecular and Biomedical Science, was named the University of Adelaide's 99th Rhodes Scholar in late 2005.

Jonathan completed a BA in 2001 and a BSc [Hons] in Molecular Biology in 2004. He is currently doing PhD research at the University of Adelaide with Dr Kirk Jensen in the Discipline of Biochemistry, using the development of zebrafish embryos to study an RNA-binding protein that is found in neurons.

Rhodes Scholarships are awarded on a state-by-state basis, with five further Australia-At-Large scholarships being awarded to applicants from the territories or the states. Jonathan received an At-Large scholarship, which is announced later than the state winners.

"It was completely unexpected," he said. Runners-up from the states, plus applicants from the territories, all go to Canberra for a dinner and then the interviews. I thought it would be a nice trip where I got to meet some interesting people - and it was! The decision is made quickly, so when they told me the on the second day that I was a winner, I just about fell over."

Jonathan will use his scholarship to undertake a Masters of Philosophy in the History of Science, Medicine and Technology. He leaves for Oxford in October and will spend two years there.

"It is an exciting and very useful diversion for me. It will be good to have a break from my PhD, and not feel worn out by it.

"I'm looking forward to doing something different, and the study will give a perspective on the science that I am doing now. In the future, I am also interested in communicating scientific research to the wider community and I think a sense of context will help me to do that as well."

Rhodes Scholarships are given to students whose achievements extend beyond the academic, and Jonathan has displayed a high level of community commitment through his work with Anglican Church outreach services and also fundraising for the Multiple Sclerosis Society, performing in many musicals and concerts for the charity, including two seasons of Les Miserables.

He also serves on the executive committee of the Australian Intervarsity Choral Societies' Association.

He performs in a number of choirs and will be touring the US, Canada and the UK in July with the Adelaide Chamber Singers.

"I am a passionate choral singer so I am really looking forward to joining a good choir while I am staying in Oxford."

Story by Lisa Reid