Swimming with the fishes has just become a whole lot easier for University of Queensland Indigenous Science Scholarship winner Taylah Gerloff.
Ms Gerloff is the latest recipient of the $60,000 scholarship and is now one step closer to her dream of a career in marine biology.
The scholarship, offered by UQ’s Faculty of Science and the Independent Marine Biochemical Research group, was awarded to Ms Gerloff at a ceremony at UQ’s Moreton Bay Research Station on North Stradbroke Island.
Director of Independent Marine Biochemical Research and scholarship donor Dr Geoff Nette said the scholarship provides the opportunity for an indigenous student to access a specialised program to enhance their science studies with financial support of up to $20,000 a year.
“We’re delighted to offer this scholarship to Taylah as part of a solid package to assist her to achieve her full potential in science, both at university and beyond,” Dr Nette said.
Ms Gerloff, a former Narangba State High School student, said she was thrilled to receive the scholarship to help her complete her Bachelor of Science.
“My plan is to complete a major in marine biology and I’ll take any opportunity to work with researchers at Independent Marine Biochemical Research,” Ms Gerloff said.
The scholarship was developed with input from North Stradbroke Island’s Indigenous community to create a program to support the winner’s transition to the university environment; provide help for their learning and study needs; and help them develop skills for a successful science career.
It is awarded to an Indigenous student who enrols in UQ’s Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Biomedical Science, Bachelor of Environmental Science or the Bachelor of Biotechnology.
New applications are taken once the current recipient completes their studies.
The ceremony was attended by Ms Gerloff’s family, UQ’s Pro-Vice Chancellor for Indigenous Education Professor Cindy Shannon, Dr Nette, representatives of the Quandamooka people and Land Council from North Stradbroke Island and UQ Moreton Bay Research Station and Faculty of Science staff.
MEDIA CONTACT: Julie Baglot, j.baglot@uq.edu.au, 0411 162 577
