Biography

After completing a Chemistry Certificate and Advanced Certificate (Computers in Chemistry and Metallurgy) at Meadowbank TAFE in NSW, I completed my undergraduate degree in Applied Science (Applied Chemistry major) at the University of Technology, Sydney, while working part-time as an experimental scientist at MD Research. After graduation I was employed by MD Research until 1998 as a research scientist and computer systems administrator. I participated in a diverse range of research projects that investigated aspects of minerals processing using the innovative Hi-Com centrifugal mill and Hi-Flot mineral flotation technologies. I have extensive experience in computer modelling (such as breakage simulation) and application coding (in FORTRAN, VB, C++, Java etc.), process control, automation and data acquisition, and general computer systems administration and help desk functions (Unix, PC and Apple).

I have a Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Industrial Mathematics and Computing) from Charles Sturt University, and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Chemistry from the University of Western Sydney. My research project was on innovative minerals processing methods - the minimisation of scale deposition via magnetic water treatment, and the mechanical alloying of Li-Al using centrifugal milling.

I designed the MiniMill accessory for powder sample preparation with MD Research's MicroFlot equipment, and developed the software package used the determining breakage parameters of materials tested using the MiniMill.

When MD Research down-sized its research activities (prior to selling the Hi-Com mill technology to Ludowici Pty Ltd), I moved to my current employer (Pinpoint Pty Limited) where I have been involved with data quality analysis, internal auditing of information systems, and process improvement.

In 2012 I completed a Master of Astronomy (part-time via distance education) from the Centre for Astronomy at James Cook University, Townsville with a GPA of 6.5 (out of 7) and Letters of Commendation for my 2010 and 2011 results.

In 2013 I enrolled as a post-grad research student at Sydney University, doing my MSc(Res) under the supervision of the Dr Peter Tuthill, director of SIfA (Sydney Institute for Astronomy). My research will involve observations of the microquasar SS 433 using the CHARA stellar interferometer using the CLIMB beam combiner, and determination of the diameter of ultra low-metallicity stars using the PAVO beam combiner.