Mel Varoy is the Partner Up Queensland Regional Science and Innovation Network Far North Queensland Regional Coordinator based in Cairns.
After completing one and a half years of a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Drama) degree, Mel went on to pursue her love of science by completing a Bachelor of Science with honours in Marine Biology.
Throughout her career, Mel has worked as a Research Assistant, Marine Biologist, Photographer and now is the Regional Coordinator for science and innovation based at James Cook University in Cairns.
As a Regional Coordinator, Mel will drive a collaborative and dynamic approach to foster diversity and engagement in the local science and innovation ecosystem in the Far North Queensland region. She’ll support events, activities and projects that encourage Queenslanders’ participation and awareness of science and innovation across the region.
Mel has only been in the role for two months, but has already achieved a lot.
Achievements (so far!)
Heroes in Science event
Mel connected local scientists with the James Cook University Heroes in Science event. The event was about giving high school students with a passion and desire to develop a career in science the chance to learn from industry experts and experience how scientific knowledge can improve the quality of life at many different levels.
National Science Week
Mel was integral when the Queensland Chief Scientist visited James Cook University (JCU) during National Science Week. Professor Hugh Possingham met with JCU Ideas Lab Founders-in-Residence, JCU researchers, the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in the EduQuarium, and presented a public seminar for TESS (Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science).
Sustainability Impact 10X event
Mel was the project innovator Sustainability Impact 10X, which is a six-week program to transform ideas into a business or not-for-profit opportunity that creates social, environmental, or economical impact.
Find out more
Visit the Partner Up Queensland webpage to find out more about this initiative.
Stay up to date on our social channels to find out what’s happening in each region and ways you can get involved.
