A record expression of interest has been received by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research's (WEHI) DeadlyScience Pathways program, which is helping First Nations students prepare for a future in science.
Since launching in 2023 the program has been connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with scientists, students and industry professionals, helping them explore future education and career opportunities while celebrating culture and connection.
Delivered in partnership with Australia's leading Indigenous STEM charity, DeadlyScience, the 2026 program provided students with a unique opportunity to experience science firsthand through hands-on learning and laboratory activities across Melbourne's biomedical precinct.
Highlights included visits to the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, the Centre of Dynamic Imaging, Murrup Barak at Melbourne University and the Gene Technology Access Centre.
Students also toured WEHI's state-of-the-art facilities, met researchers, took part in practical scientific activities and learned about the many pathways available in medical research.
Founder and CEO of DeadlyScience, Associate Professor Corey Tutt OAM, said the program was beginning to show the impact which can come from creating meaningful pathways into STEM.
"One of the most rewarding outcomes of the DeadlyScience Pathways Program is seeing the lasting impact it is having on young people," Associate Professor Tutt said.
"We've seen students who walked through WEHI's doors unsure of what came next after school and leave with a completely different view of what's possible.
"Some of these students had never considered STEM as a future pathway but the DeadlyScience Pathways Program opened their horizions. Now some of those same students are studying science at university. That's the power of access, representation and opportunity.
"Together with WEHI, we're showing First Nations students that they belong in these spaces and have an important role to play in shaping the future of science."
This year's program saw 27 students participate from six schools in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, the Northern Territory and for the first Time in Tasmania, through the involvement of George Town's Port Dalrymple School.
