During the holidays, myself and Prince Sidiangco had the opportunity to participate in the SPARQ-ed Senior Research and Immersion Program. Located at the Translational Research Institute in Brisbane, this program was a five day experience in which we considered the research of Dr Kim Summers. She studied a genetic disease called goniodysgenesis, which is caused as a result of a missense variant in the OLFML3 gene of Border Collies. It is thought to be a potential cause for glaucoma and the decreased corneal angle in the eye. Through an interesting scientific process, we were able to collect, isolate and analyse the gene sequences of some sample dogs, to determine their genome. This allowed us to look for the missense variant, in which the base pairs were noted to change from CGG -> CAG and therefore suggest whether or not the dogs would be affected or unaffected by goniodysgenesis. This experience allowed us to develop new lab skills, meet new people, and have an overall enjoyable week.
Kiara Pellegrino
Year 11 Student
The program was extremely fulfilling as an activity in order to enhance our learning outside of the regular classroom activities, broadening Kiara and I's scope on topics related to Biology and Chemistry which are two of the most popular subjects at QAHS. For anyone who would like hands on practical experience in the lab, SPARQed is an excellent program to take especially with friends, or even by yourself since you will be surrounded by likeminded students from Years 10-12. The experience was collaborative, connecting with similarly aligned students and being able to participate in the laboratory and use the learnt lab skills and applying them to real world scenarios. I highly recommend this program if you do take Biology and Chemistry as it will give you a good idea of what jobs are available/what you may be doing in the future related to Biology/Chemistry.
Prince Sidiangco
Year 11 Student