Girls in Science Forum connects school students with leading researchers

UNSW Sydney

School students met leading women researchers, explored groundbreaking science and discovered potential career pathways at the 2026 L’Oréal-UNESCO Girls in Science Forum hosted by UNSW.

From the mysteries of marine viruses to new approaches to breast cancer treatment, school students explored the possibilities of a career in science at the 2026 L’Oréal-UNESCO Girls in Science Forum, hosted by UNSW Sydney.

Students in Years 9 to 11 met the 2026 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Fellows, heard about their research journeys and joined UNSW PhD students for hands-on science activities.

The five researchers awarded Fellowships shared insights into work spanning immunology, artificial intelligence, marine science and maternal health.

“Hearing researchers talk about their work and the different paths they’ve taken into science can help students imagine where their own curiosity might lead,” said Dr Nicole Rijs, Associate Dean of Equity Diversity and Inclusion in the UNSW Faculty of Science.

“Science needs people with different experiences, interests and ways of thinking. The Fellows’ work, from understanding chronic disease to protecting coral reefs, shows the breadth of questions science can help us answer.

“UNSW is proud to host the forum this year and connect students with researchers shaping the future of science. We hope meeting them and taking part in hands-on activities encourages students to ask questions, explore new ideas and see themselves as part of science.”

Stephanie Luelf, Chief Corporate Affairs & Engagement Officer at L’Oréal Australia & New Zealand said, “We believe it’s important to make science accessible and inspire the next generation of women in STEMM. It’s wonderful to see students meet our 2026 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Fellows, explore science firsthand and imagine where their own curiosity could take them.” 

Fellows share their research with students

The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program supports researchers with flexible funding, mentorship and visibility. At the forum, the Fellows gave students an overview of the questions driving their research.

Dr Hani Kim of the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and a Conjoint Lecturer at UNSW Medicine & Health explained how she uses artificial intelligence to analyse genomic and clinical data, helping identify which people with breast cancer may benefit from immunotherapy.

Dr Jennifer Matthews of the University of Technology Sydney described the chemistry that helps coral reefs withstand environmental stress, including research that inspired a nutrient-rich treatment for young corals.

Dr Mary Petrone of the University of Sydney spoke about unusual RNA viruses in sea sponges and other marine organisms, and what they could reveal about viral evolution and future outbreaks.

The other Fellows shared research on how cells lining the gut and lungs interact with the immune system, and on breastfeeding, human milk and early-life health. Dr Amanda Oliver of QIMR Berghofer discussed how her work could help improve treatment for chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease and asthma. Dr Mariana Muelbert of New Zealand’s Liggins Institute spoke about how pregnancy and birth interventions can affect breastfeeding and infant health.

Students also asked the Fellows about challenges they might face in science. When one asked, “How do you deal with stress and self-doubt?”, the researchers encouraged students to focus on their own journeys rather than compare themselves with others or worry about others’ opinions.

Another student asked about working in a male-dominated field. Dr Muelbert acknowledged that it could be tough but said she was proud to be an agent of change. Dr Petrone encouraged students to back themselves and remember they deserved to be there.

Hands-on activities bring science to life

Students explored science through activities on minerals, corals, DNA and pond-water microorganisms.

In one session, they examined minerals used in everyday products and discussed how mining can meet society’s needs while reducing environmental impacts. Other sessions invited them to look closely at corals and consider their importance to ocean life, see how DNA samples are separated using gel electrophoresis, or observe microscopic life in pond water.

Each group also took part in an ‘Ask a Scientist’ session, chatting in small groups with UNSW PhD students from the faculties of Science and Medicine & Health. Students could ask about the researchers’ work, their experiences at university and the different career paths available in science.

Ends

Yolande Hutchinson

[email protected]

Mob: 0420 845 023