From research lab to classroom: Alyssa inspires the next generation
When Alyssa Budd enrolled in a Bachelor of Science at CQUniversity after graduating years earlier as a school teacher, she never imagined that her science studies would one day shape the way she engages with high school students.
Alyssa's scientific journey began in 2021 with Inquiry-Oriented Learning in Organic Chemistry – a hands-on, student-centred approach that sparked her curiosity and gave her a taste of what it means to think like a researcher.
By 2023, Alyssa was ready to take the next step, completing a Work Integrated Learning placement at the Central Queensland Innovation and Research Precinct (CQIRP) in Rockhampton.
There, she joined CQUniversity’s Bioactive and Functional Foods Research Group, led by Dr Mani Naiker, contributing to projects exploring the bioactive compounds found in native Australian flora.
She later returned for her final-year research project, focusing on the Atherton raspberry (Rubus probus), a little-explored native fruit with big potential for nutritional and functional benefits.
But Alyssa’s story doesn’t end in the research lab. Today, as a high school Chemistry and Agriculture teacher, she’s cultivating Atherton raspberry plants with her students and colleagues, creating opportunities for them to connect with and appreciate native foods much like the ones she once studied at university.
Together, they’re generating and sharing data – effectively bridging the gap between world-class university research and school-based science education.
“Being part of Dr Naiker’s research group gave me the skills and confidence to take research beyond my learning environment,” Alyssa explained.
“Now I can share that process with my students and inspire them to see themselves as research scientists too.”
Dr Mani Naiker, Lead Researcher of the Bioactive and Functional Foods Research Group, said Alyssa’s enthusiasm, curiosity and resilience made her an outstanding member of their team.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see her take the knowledge and skills gained at CQUniversity and bring them into her classroom, inspiring and engaging the next generation of scientists.”
CQUniversity’s approach to embedding inquiry and research in undergraduate learning has created a powerful ripple effect.
Alyssa’s experience shows how early exposure to research not only equips students with technical knowledge and critical thinking skills but also empowers them to pass that passion forward – shaping the next generation of problem solvers.
Alyssa’s journey is a shining example of the University’s impact: creating graduates who are not just job-ready, but ready to inspire.
