ACT students assisting plant scientists

Under the guidance of Dr Crispin Howitt and Dr Greg Tanner the students have undertaken a range of research tasks including manipulation and sequencing of rice DNA, testing proteins for specific characteristics and undertaking plant crosses. 

“They have gained a real understanding of how scientific research is carried out safely in a state-of-the-art laboratory,” Dr Howitt says.

“They’ve also had the opportunity to learn from experts how to use much more sophisticated research equipment than they would normally find in their classrooms.”

Having completed the research work, the students will now use the results to prepare a presentation for teachers attending the annual conference for the Science Educators Association for the ACT (CONSEA*ACT) being held early in November at CSIRO headquarters.

The Researching with Scientists Project Officer, Felicity Bruce, says the project provides a unique opportunity for students, scientists and teachers to work together.

“Some of the benefits of this project are the opportunity for students to experience the enthusiasm and dedication which professional research scientists invest in their work, the thrill of producing meaningful results and the chance to see what a scientist really does,” Ms Bruce says.

“Having teachers present allows for this experience to be brought back into the classroom for further discussion and explanation. It also helps students to put what they learn in the classroom in the context of what they have done and learned in a real-world, working laboratory,” Ms Bruce says.

The Researching with Scientists Project is a joint venture between CSIRO and the ACT Department of Education.

Media Note:

Dr Howitt and the students will be available from 2.30pm – 4.30pm today for interviews and photo opportunities at CSIRO Plant Industry’s facilities at Black Mountain, Canberra.