Employability development
Throughout the semester, I have focused on developing my knowledge and skills in research and employability. BIOL342 has helped me reflect on how my scientific background can be translated into meaningful career pathways. I’ve actively explored opportunities in both science and education, refining my job search strategies to align with my evolving goals, building a career network and expanding my knowledge in areas of interest.
Above is a screenshot of my updated LinkedIn profile. Below is a link to access my LinkedIn page.
Exploring career opportunities and implementing job search strategies
One key area of growth has been learning to tailor my CV and cover letters to effectively highlight the transferable skills I gained through lab work, such as data analysis, problem-solving, and collaboration. I’ve also begun using LinkedIn more strategically, updating my profile to reflect my academic and practical experiences, following relevant organisations, and engaging with posts in molecular biology and education.
I’ve spoken to industry professionals about workplaces, necessary training and ways to improve in interview, my CV and my resume. These experiences have increased my confidence in navigating the job market and helped me identify roles that align with both my scientific expertise and passion for inclusive education.
BIOL342 has reinforced the importance of being proactive and adaptable in career planning, and I now feel more prepared to pursue roles that combine research, teaching, and advocacy.
Building a career network
BIOL342 has highlighted the importance of building a strong professional network to support career development in both science and education. For this reason. I’ve taken proactive steps to expand my network by engaging with academic staff, peers, and professionals through informational interviews and LinkedIn. These conversations and interactions have helped me understand diverse career pathways and gain insight into roles that combine molecular biology with inclusive education.
During BIOL342, I collaborated with classmates on lab projects and discussions, which strengthened my ability to communicate scientific ideas and work effectively in a team. These interactions have not only enhanced my technical skills but also helped me build relationships that may lead to future collaborations or mentorship.
Above is a quote from a peer that I had study session and career discussions with.
Above is a screenshot of the groups that I am currently a part of through my LinkedIn account.
Developing skills and knowledge of my discipline
My journey through my degree has equipped me with a strong technical and theoretical foundation. Through my coursework and practical lab work, I have gained valuable hands-on experience in a variety of areas.
Throughout the semester, I have focused on developing my knowledge and skills in research and employability. BIOL342 has been instrumental in deepening my understanding of molecular biology and enhancing my practical skill set. This subject has allowed me to apply techniques in a real-world research context. I’ve gained confidence in interpreting experimental results and troubleshooting protocols, skills that are essential in both scientific and educational careers.
Beyond the lab, I’ve actively engaged with scientific literature to stay informed about current research in cell biology and biotechnology by using websites such as Science News and Science Daily to monitor new article releases. This has improved my ability to evaluate methodologies and understand how molecular mechanisms relate to disease, knowledge I aim to translate into accessible learning for future students. In the classroom, I have had the opportunity to assist in adapting lesson plans to suit children's individual needs (e.g. communication difficulties, developmental delay, physical disabilities). This has been supported by the Department of Education courses and the subscription to 'The Adapted Classroom' to provide classroom ideas.
I’ve also participated in peer discussions and workshops that reinforced key concepts and encouraged collaborative learning. These experiences have helped me connect theory to practice and reflect on how science can be effectively communicated in classroom settings, strengthening my foundation in molecular biology and preparing me to bridge the gap between research and education, which supports my goal of becoming a teacher.
Above is a video sharing a density lesson that has been adapted for individual student needs and the way that it would be implemented in a classroom.