Awarded by Westpac Future Leaders, the financial boost will allow scientist Monica Phimmachanh to conduct research to uncover the role disruptive enzymes play to stop them leading to disease.
Enzymes are biological molecules (typically proteins) that speed up the rate of virtually all of the chemical reactions that take place within cells.
They are vital for life and serve a wide range of important functions in the body, such as aiding digestion and metabolism.
Many inherited human diseases result from a deficiency of a particular enzyme.
Monica, 25, says she is still pinching herself about the win.
“The funding will support my PhD study to find out how enzymes are implicated in disease, the genes they control and what happens when things go awry,” she said.
“I’ll also be part of Westpac’s 100 Scholars Network, allowing me to tap into inspiring people plus I will be able to undertake international internships as well as a leadership development program.”
Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is one of five offered by the Westpac Scholars Trust awarded to postgraduate students who are investigating solutions to complex issues.
Westpac Scholars Trust CEO Susan Bannigan said: “Scholars are chosen for their passion and potential to help solve important problems and have the potential to make a significant impact.”
To learn more, visit westpac.com.au/scholarships.
