During the break, the School of Biomedical Sciences collaborated with the QUT Centre for Immunology and Infection Control (CIIC) to host 40 students from the Future You Summit program at our H2 lab in Kelvin Grove. Associate Professor Danica Hickey, along with sessional academics Dr. Bronwyn Bulmer and Jacob Steadman, guided students through a Health Pioneers session. The focus was on an influenza outbreak scenario, exploring how vaccination status influences disease spread. Students actively participated in both practical lab skills and theoretical discussions related to infection and immunity.
Additionally, students had the opportunity to attend a “Seeing Yourself in Medical Research” talk by Professor Tony Kenna (Health ADR). We extend special thanks to Alina Tollenaere (Senior Technical Operations Partner) and the technical services team, including Dr. Wai Soon Eng, Dr. Marina Mathew, and Leanne Hill, for creating a positive lab experience for the students.
Overall, this week-long event welcomed over 300 year 11 and 12 students from 175 schools—the largest cohort to date. The Future You Summit continues to provide invaluable experiences, fostering connections, sparking interests, and offering a hands-on approach to learning.