On Thursday 21 May, girls studying Physics and STEM attended a morning breakfast lecture at The Cube in Wodonga. The event gave students from Years 10 to 12 the opportunity to share a table with women working in physics, engineering, and related fields. This provided a valuable chance to ask questions about career pathways, university study, and opportunities in the local area, while also connecting with students from other schools.

The guest speaker was Dr Manisha Caleb, a radio astronomer from the University of Sydney, who shared her journey from high school to university and into a career in scientific research. Dr Caleb spoke about her work in radio astronomy, where she studies some of the most mysterious signals in the Universe, including radio transients – objects that suddenly “go bang” in the sky and may never be seen again. Her research helps scientists better understand matter, gravity, magnetic fields, and the structure of the cosmos using some of the world’s leading radio telescopes.

Dr Caleb’s passion for science outreach and mentoring was clear throughout her presentation, as she encouraged students to remain curious and consider the many exciting possibilities available through physics and STEM.

Terri Gregotski
Physics Teacher