On November 29 she will be awarded a prestigious Victor Chang School Science Award in Dubbo. 

She is among only 13 Year 11 students from the Western NSW region to be recognised for excellence in the field of science.

Amber said her love of science was sparked in Year 9 when the class began to delve into the fascinating realm of genetics and the basis of life.

“I really enjoy learning about our world,” Amber said. 

Amber completed work experience with Sydney University in the biochemistry and molecular engineering lab and looked forward to gaining more experience in the sciences while still at school. 

“I think this (award) will help in applying for university and in gaining more opportunities for work experience,” she said. 

Read more

Amber said Lithgow High School had implemented programs to encourage girls to participate in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and there were more young women taking up options to study the field. 

Amber hoped to go on to study medicine. 

Named after the late cardiac surgeon and pioneer of modern heart transplantation, Dr Victor Chang, these awards were established to celebrate young, gifted students and to foster growth in scientific studies.

The Victor Chang School Science Awards help raise community awareness and appreciation of the important contribution scientists can make to our everyday lives. The winners will join more than 200 students from across NSW on a tour of the Victor Chang Institute, and have the opportunity to learn first-hand from our world-renowned scientists.

Dr Alastair Stewart from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute believes that by guiding and encouraging these students to consider a career in STEM, the legacy of Australian discovery would only become stronger.

“By nurturing these inquisitive scientific minds, we are cementing a strong future for Australian research.

We’ve got such a proud history of discovery and it’s through students like these, that the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics will continue to flourish in Australia.

“As a scientist you not only contribute to building knowledge and understanding, but you’re also a driver in economic, environmental, health, social and technological advances. The opportunities are truly endless.”

The winners will join more than 200 students from across NSW on a tour of the Victor Chang Institute, and have the opportunity to learn first-hand from our world-renowned scientists.