But far from being locked away in their labs, ECU researchers are translating their findings by teaching today’s professionals who will shape the jobs, communities, environment and industry of tomorrow.
Research protecting frontline heroes
Professor of Occupational and Environmental Health Jacques Oosthuizen and his research team from ECU’s School of Medical and Health Sciences are investigating the effects of exposure to hazardous chemicals on firefighters, in an effort to reduce incidence of cancer.
Professor Oosthuizen said this research led to a simple change of protocol when a firefighter comes out of a fire scenario to first take off their protective tunic, put it in a decontamination bag and then remove their respiratory protection.
“Our students benefit from the research we do here because they get exposed to our fantastic laboratory facilities and our team of researchers who are able to transfer their knowledge and skills in problem solving and critical thinking.”
Recent legislative changes require individuals working in occupational health and safety, training, environmental and public health to be suitably qualified with a formal accreditation.
For more information on studying Occupational Health and Safety at ECU: ecuworldready.com.au/ohs
Best practice thinking for teachers
School of Education Senior Lecturer Dr Christine Cunningham identifies trends to help in the education of qualified teachers.
“My research focus is on schools all around the world. What we’re trying to do is just figure out which schools are doing it right, and what can we learn from them and bring it back to Australia, and make all of our teachers and our schools the best in the world.”
“We give you the tools to show you how to teach and how to lead in schools to make students just love learning.”
Teachers can choose to progress from the classroom to a leadership role within the school environment by studying a Master of Education. Professionals looking for a career switch can study a Master of Teaching, specialising in either early childhood, primary or secondary education.
Growing demand for educators
Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Course Coordinator Ms Sarah Jefferson said there is a growing demand for more specialist secondary teachers in science, maths and English.
“Western Australia is currently facing a shortage of qualified high school teachers across metro, regional and remote areas,” Ms Jefferson said.
“The demand will continue into the future and graduates will be well placed to gain employment and make a positive difference to the lives of young people in WA.”
For more information on studying Education at ECU: ecuworldready.com.au/education
Unlocking better medical practices
Dr Stacey Reinke's research looks at data as the driving force behind understanding biology and disease.
“My main focus and research is a field called metabolomics. I look at all the chemicals in the body and try to look for underlying patterns,” Dr Reinke said.
Through her recent research in asthma, Dr Reinke used new metabolomics tools to unlock those insights, including state-of-the-art technology to measure metaboloids and computational workflows to interrogate data.
“My research into unlocking better diagnostic practices will help postgrads in their research.”
For more information on studying Mathematics at ECU: ecuworldready.com.au/mathematics
Supercharge your clinical skills
Helena Halton is the Director of Postgraduate Nursing Studies and Nurse Practitioner at ECU's Chronic Disease Wellness Clinic. She is looking at how community-based health care can improve outcomes for people with chronic disease.
“ECU’s Chronic Disease Wellness Centre provides an opportunity for postgraduate students to develop their skills in a real-world setting,” Ms Halton said.
For more information on studying Nursing at ECU: ecuworldready.com.au/nursing
Flexibility to get your career moving
You may already have a bachelor’s degree or professional experience. But a postgraduate degree can give you the edge needed to succeed in your chosen career – or transition to a new one.
ECU provides flexible study options including online and part-time, which means you can choose how you study, to suit your life and work commitments.
It’s this approach that has seen ECU awarded five stars for postgraduate study learning resources in the 2021 Good Universities Guide.
Take control of your career and apply today: ecuworldready.com.au/postgrad.
By Edith Cowan University
