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Panorama Newsletter

Celebrating Excellence: Jaclyn Gilbert and Alison Burns Win Tecniplast Australia Scholarships

In a remarkable display of dedication and excellence, Jaclyn Gilbert and Alison Burns have been awarded the prestigious Tecniplast LAS Technician Scholarships for 2025. These awards recognise their outstanding contributions to the field of laboratory animal science and their unwavering commitment to improving animal welfare and advancing medical research.

Jaclyn Gilbert: LAS Technician IAT Scholarship Winner

Jaclyn Gilbert, a dedicated technician at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI), has been honoured with the LAS Technician IAT Scholarship. This award is a testament to her exceptional skills and contributions to the lab animal science community. Jaclyn's commitment to ethical practices, teamwork, and innovation has set her apart as a leader in her field.

Jaclyn was nominated by Michele Cook, her manager at WEHI. Michele highlighted Jaclyn's dedication to fostering a culture of care and advancing professional development within WEHI and beyond. Jaclyn is an active member of ANZLAA and has developed the WEHI Technical Training Program, exemplifying leadership in education and continuous improvement. Her commitment to wellbeing has inspired her colleagues and the broader LAS community.

As the recipient of this scholarship, Jaclyn attended the Institute of Animal Technology (IAT) Congress in the UK from March 4th to 7th, 2025. This prestigious event provided her with the opportunity to engage with global experts, share her knowledge, and gain insights into the latest advancements in animal technology. The scholarship includes return flights from Melbourne, five nights of accommodation, meals, full delegate registration, attendance at the IAT Gala Dinner, and networking events. Additionally, Jaclyn will enjoy a special tour of the Tecniplast Headquarters in Varese, Italy, including flights, three nights of accommodation, and meals.

Alison Burns: LAS Technician Scholarship Overall Winner

Alison Burns, a dedicated technician at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), has been awarded the LAS Technician Scholarship Overall Winner. Alison's unwavering dedication to improving animal welfare and her innovative approach to laboratory practices have earned her this prestigious recognition.

Alison was nominated by Caroline Schram, the AEC Executive Officer at MCRI. Caroline detailed Alison's significant contributions, including initiating the use of non-animal models for training, re-writing standard operating procedures, and managing a defect within the animal house hydration systems. Alison's efforts have improved ethical, humane, and responsible use of laboratory animals, inspired teamwork, and enhanced workplace outcomes.

As the overall winner, Alison will attend the 16th FELASA Congress in Athens, Greece, from June 2nd to 5th, 2025. This event will provide her with a platform to connect with international peers, exchange ideas, and contribute to the global conversation on animal welfare and scientific research. The scholarship includes return flights from Melbourne, seven nights of accommodation, meals, full delegate registration, attendance at the Welcome Reception, Gala Dinner, Tecniplast Country Dinner, and networking events.

Acknowledging Excellence in the LAS Community

The Tecniplast LAS Technician Scholarships are designed to recognise and reward individuals who have shown consistent dedication to improving both animal and personnel welfare through best practices, loyalty, trust, and teamwork. These scholarships celebrate the unsung heroes within the Australian and New Zealand lab animal industry who display dedication, fairness, respect, and innovation.

Tecniplast Australia received an overwhelming number of 38 high-standard applications for the scholarships, making it challenging for the independent decision panel to select the best nominations. The exceptional calibre of nominations led to the awarding of three scholarship prizes, with Jaclyn Gilbert and Alison Burns being among the distinguished recipients.

The achievements of Jaclyn Gilbert and Alison Burns serve as an inspiration to the entire lab animal science community. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence have not only earned them prestigious scholarships but also highlighted the importance of loyalty, trust, teamwork and innovation in Lab Animal Science. As they embark on their respective journeys to the IAT Congress and the FELASA Congress, they will undoubtedly continue to make significant contributions to the field and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

Congratulations to Jaclyn Gilbert and Alison Burns on their well-deserved awards, and best wishes for their continued success!