Celebrating Medical Research on International Women's Day

March 30th, 2009 - Media Statement

The Western Australian Institute for Medical Research's Dr Kristen Nowak shared her career successes, motivations and aspirations at an International Women's Day celebration in March.

The winner of the 2007 WA Premier's Prize for Early Career Achievement was one of four inspirational Western Australian women invited to share their personal stories at the Lunchbox List "Worldly Women" function on Friday March 6.

Dr Nowak said she used the opportunity to encourage WA women to achieve their life goals as well as inspire them to take up a career in science, particularly medical research.

"I was very excited about the chance to present to a group of ambitious women about such a rewarding career as well as my own achievements and aspirations in science," she said.

"I think science is still relatively unthought-of when it comes to career options - particularly for women - and I was keen to share my thoughts on what a fantastic career medical research is and the wonderful benefits of this area of work."

"I'm always keen to talk to the community about science and medical research - I've had great fun talking to tomorrow's stars at schools and universities, so it was great to boost awareness of science among WA women."

WAIMR Director Peter Klinken said he was thrilled that Dr Nowak had been asked to present at the event.

"It's fantastic to see how much of an impact Kristen's work is already having on budding scientists in WA and this function was a great way for her to continue to encourage women to enter the field of medical research," he said.

The luncheon also featured West Australian Young Person of the Year 2007 and wildlife conservationist; Aimee Silla, Rio Tinto native title and community relations officer Lauren Heinritz, and Prime Minister's Centenary medal recipient for service to the community and disabilities activist Kerry Allan-Zinner.

The Celebrate International Women's Day luncheon was held at the Hyatt Regency in Perth on March 6.

For more information, please visit www.lunchboxlist.com.

For more information please contact:
Sarah Hayward
Media Consultant for the WA Institute for Medical Research
Mobile: 0411 404 415
Office: (08) 9388 9280