The Advanced Genomics Collaboration (TAGC) was proud to sponsor the University of Melbourne’s annual MDHS Honours Conference this year, in line with the partnership’s commitment to supporting scholarship and learning opportunities to equip the next generation of researchers with the skills to lead the genomic workforce of the future.

The event formed a platform for graduating Honours students to share and explore their important research, while considering pathways and opportunities for further research and study.

Students were invited to participate in a 3-Minute Thesis competition and poster exhibition to hone their academic presentation and communication skills.

The conference also included a consumer engagement panel hosted by Professor Frederic Hollande from the University of Melbourne Centre for Cancer Research’s Tumour Heterogeneity in Metastatic Cancer group, prompting graduates to consider the important role people with lived experience contribute to healthcare research.

A diverse number of stakeholders from all corners of the medical research industry were on hand to share their knowledge and expertise. Illumina’s Cristina Bitzilis represented TAGC on the careers panel section of the event, answering student questions about the diverse array of options available to people hoping to eke out a career in medical research.

TAGC has supported more than 50 students with the opportunity to gain work experience in the genomics industry to date, with a range of practical internships covering areas from biotech to marketing and business.

New student internship opportunities will be announced in early 2024 for semester two placements.