Melissa Johnstone

Background

About Melissa Johnstone

As a new graduate of a Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences) with Distinction, majoring in Environmental Science, from RMIT University, I am seeking to embark on my professional career by undertaking an exciting and stimulating position in the science industry. I have enjoy working in the laboratory, and have particular interests in water management and ecology. Throughout my science degree I worked on two major team projects. My final year work-integrated-learning project involved working in a team to assess and characterise the surface water and groundwater on a farm with soil salinity issues. This involved field sampling, laboratory analysis, and data collation, and culminated in the writing of a comprehensive, professional report and presentation to the clients, the farmer and staff from the local water authority. I also was involved in a week long field study of the health of the Gippsland river and lake system around Lakes Entrance, Victoria, where I undertook field samples of fresh and estuarine waters, field and laboratory analyses of fresh and estuarine waters, and invertebrate analysis. The findings were collated in a comprehensive report written by a team of six students. Prior to returning to university to study science, I gained six years' experience working as a registered orthoptist in various eye clinics and public hospitals across Melbourne, where I was able to develop professional skills including communication with colleagues and clients, working as a part of the healthcare team, technical skills in the use and calibration of various pieces of equipment, and record keeping.