Alumni Feature Story

Mr Brett Lambert

RHD: THE WAY WE WERE

Jen Webb, Doctor of Philosophy (1998) reminisces about her CQU research days compared with the life of a researcher in the 2020s:

‘the way research studies are now conducted includes far more checks and balances ‑‑ more attention to progress, and a lot more training in areas such as research ethics, data management, public engagement and how to disseminate findings. Back in the 1990s, the focus was far more on doing the research and presenting at conferences/publishing in academic journals; there was much less focus on engagement, impact, transferability and knowledge exchange.’ Jen is now a Distinguished Professor of Creative Practice and Dean of Graduate Research at the University of Canberra.

Fast facts

Graduated: 1997 Qualification: Master of Applied Science Thesis: Methods For Reducing Pimelea sp. Poisoning of Cattle Current Position: Owner of Applied Analytical Laboratories

Brett’s best memory of studying at CQU was ‘the rewarding fieldwork!’. At the time of pursuing his masters degree, there was virtually unlimited access to the university’s chromatographic and spectroscopic equipment – this experience enabled Brett to have the competence as a graduate, to walk into any laboratory knowing precisely what he was doing. His experience with NMR spectroscopy also equipped him to further his expertise, as it was a skill not possessed by many. Brett reflects on learning from his supervisor to ‘focus, use a multidisciplinary approach to problem‑solving, think before speaking, and enjoy what you do with confidence’. It was great advice and Brett followed it, with his company, Applied Analytical Laboratories, now flourishing and having links to research collaborations with a number of Australian universities. Brett’s best tip for the next generation of RHD graduates? ‘Don’t be frightened to get your hands dirty’.