Year 12 student Daniel Comber-Todd of Mona Vale has returned to Australia after experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform hands-on scientific experiments at Boston’s world renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Supported by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Daniel attended MIT’s Research Science Institute and worked with top international physicists on original research. The Research Science Institute is a competitive research program for senior high school students from 26 countries hosted by MIT, which is famous as the alma mater of dozens of Nobel Prize laureates in scientific fields.
Daniel, who attends the Mater Maria Catholic College in Warriewood, met with scientists at ANSTO’s Bragg Institute to learn more about nuclear physics before embarking on the visit to MIT. The Bragg Institute leads Australia in the use of neutron scattering and X-ray techniques to solve complex research and industrial problems in many important fields. Daniel was also supported in his trip to Boston by the National Youth Science Forum, a program dedicated to exposing students who are thinking about a career in science, engineering and related disciplines to major scientific institutions.
“I’d like to thank ANSTO for giving me the chance to accept this extraordinary opportunity to work in an amazing laboratory. This visit has allowed me to explore my interests, push my academic boundaries, and make life-long friends with whom I can always share this incredible experience.
As well as enjoying the scientific opportunities, Daniel said that the trip was his first visit to America. “I feel like I’ve gotten a true taste of American culture, from our weekend trip to the Boston Harbour Islands to my personal highlight, the 4th of July fireworks on the Esplanade.”
ANSTO supports budding young scientists in fulfilling their aspirations through a range of sponsorships and programs
Published: 19/08/2010