Diane Sunira Daniel

Course: Bachelor of Science (Honours) (majoring in Biotechnology), 2013 and Doctor of Philosophy (in the area of Microbiology), 2017
Nationality: Malaysian
Current role: Scientist (Antimicrobial Resistance) – Research & Training, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity (Melbourne)

Please tell us about your postgraduate research.

As we all know, the development of antibiotic resistance among bacteria is a point of concern in both human and animal medicine. My PhD was designed to serve as a framework for the development of new strategies to prevent and treat Enterococcus faecalis infections, as well as highlight the need of health care settings and industries in Malaysia to strictly regulate the use of antibiotics to curb the emerging threat of MDR (multi-drug resistant) enterococci.

Why did you choose to pursue your postgraduate degree at Monash?

Besides ranking in the world’s top one per cent of universities, and being a member of Australia’s Group of Eight, Monash also offered the tools and support I needed as an upcoming researcher. I knew Monash was the right place for me to develop the research skills and professional attributes I needed to make an impact in the world of academia, and I was not disappointed. My experience at Monash has been nothing short of exceptional.

Did you participate in any student activities or opportunities?

There is a lot more to postgraduate life than just research; it is also about making new connections at a variety of networking opportunities. I was part of the organising committee for the 21st Malaysian Society for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Annual Scientific Meeting at Monash University Malaysia as well as the Monash Science Symposium 2016. I also assisted in Monash Open Days/Discover Monash to increase the intake of students in the School of Science. I attended numerous conferences including the Australian Society for Microbiology Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM), and was an invited speaker at the School of Public Health in Curtin University, Australia.

What did you enjoy most about your student life at Monash?

On top of still being able to take advantage of student discounts, one of the best experiences I had as a postgraduate student was being a laboratory demonstrator for the Microbiology units. I loved interacting with students, and providing them with hands-on practical experiences to reinforce the theory presented in lectures. It was a rewarding experience to foster an ongoing interest in these students; particularly in a field I am passionate about – Microbiology!

What are your career goals?

My biggest career goal is to continue down the path of academia and eventually be honoured the title of ‘Distinguished Professor’ – a title given to the top tenured professors in a university because they are highly regarded and seen as a leader in their field of study.