The Journal of Emerging Investigators is a science journal and mentorship program publishing research by middle and high school scientists around the world. Gihansa wrote her Biology Extended Essay on the topic 'What are the antimicrobial properties of native Australian Myrtaceae species such as Xanthostemon chrysanthus, Syzygium australe, Melaleuca leucadendra, Angophora bakeri, Corymbia ficifolia and Callistemon viminalis against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa measured by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for further development of antibiotics for multi-drug resistant strains of the same bacteria?' Her research essay is in the process of being published in the journal and Gihansa writes about her experience:
'All Year12 students take part in the Extended Essay process. In my case, I wanted to do a science EE because that's where my passions lie. I was fortunate to conduct this EE in the Smart Water Laboratories of Griffith University. At Griffith University I worked under the supervision of Professors and PhD candidates, which was an enlightening process. I learnt a considerable amount about not just the topic I was researching but also about how industrial research in drug development takes place. After working in this professional environment, I realised the importance of publication in the scientific methodology. Most IB students do not complete this step because it is difficult to get accepted and requires constant modification according to journals formatting and layouts.
Although this was a difficult process, I was lucky enough to be preliminary accepted into the Journal of Emerging Investigators. This journal specifically publishes the innovative work of students at high school level. I am currently in the process of scientific review, which involves working with the journal in making my research ready for publication. I hope the publication of this research can be used to show my gratitude to all my teachers and supervisors who helped me complete this research. It has been an interesting and new experience. After my EE and this publication journey, I think I have gained a holistic insight into the realities of research. I hope that these ventures will help me in the future when I engage with biomedical research during university.'
Melissa Mitchell
Science Teaching Faculty: Biology & CAS Coordinator