Dozens of senior students from the Hunter region recently swapped their classrooms for state-of-the-art laboratories, experiencing a day in the life of a medical researcher at the Hunter Medical Research Institute.
The special discovery day, held on November 13, 2025, provided Year 10 and 11 students from Macquarie College, Newcastle Grammar, and Cessnock High School with an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional medical research.
Hands-On Learning in World-Class Facilities
Supported by Newcastle Permanent, the event offered a comprehensive program designed to ignite passion for science. Students participated in building and laboratory tours, delving into specialised fields such as histology and cardio-oncology.
They attended presentations from expert researchers affiliated with HMRI, the University of Newcastle, and the Hunter New England Local Health District, gaining direct insight into cutting-edge medical studies happening in their own community.
Designing the Future of Medicine
A key component of the day challenged students to collaborate and design their own medical research experiment. This group work element fostered teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills, giving them a practical taste of the scientific process.
For Year 10 Cessnock High School student Olivia Lopez, the day was a revelation. "I was looking forward to seeing how scientists figure out how different drugs kill cancer cells and how they can develop that technology," she said.
"It's been really cool seeing the amount of technology they have, and seeing how they've figured out just by testing cells, these microscopic little things can cause so much damage." Olivia, who aspires to be a mortician, also expressed a strong interest in pursuing a university degree in STEM, particularly drawn to human anatomy.
Investing in the Next Generation of Innovators
Carol Duncan, HMRI Public Engagement Lead, emphasised the critical importance of such initiatives. "STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) was essential for future scientists and researchers," she stated.
"The day aims to help students see how what they're learning now can make a real impact in the future. By encouraging these young minds to build STEM skills early, we're investing in the future of innovation and discovery."
Ms Duncan highlighted that the event is specifically designed to spark curiosity and help students visualise a potential career in medical research. She also pointed out that a research career is diverse, extending beyond the traditional lab coat.
"It's a real window into the world-class research happening right here in the Hunter, and proof that you don't have to leave your hometown to make a global impact," she added, noting roles in data science, imaging, pathology, and technical support are all vital parts of the research ecosystem.
