March 27, 2015

Science students get hands-on research experience

Professional basketball player Tim Coenraad is one of many UOW undergraduate science students getting hands-on research experience this semester. 

The third year International Bachelor of Science student, who plays for the Wollongong Hawks, is embarking on UOW’s Science Research Internship subject, which will see him working alongside Wollongong Hawks strength and conditioning coaches to investigate bridging the gap between genetics and hard work. 

“There are several athletes that have a natural predisposition to physical activity. Many have stronger more active fast twitch muscle fibres enabling them to jump higher and run faster. My aim is to be able to train athletes that have not been given this predisposition, to jump higher and run faster, despite their lack of natural ability,” Tim said.  

“I hope to develop a very specific training program that can help athletes reach their full potential and beat genetics.” 

Professor Marc in het Panhuis, Associate Dean (International) of the Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, said through the Science Research Internship, students like Tim with an interest in research have an opportunity to gain experience “at the bench” or “in the field” as part of their degree. 

“Every year a large amount of Higher Degree Research students travel all over the world to gain research experience in University and industry laboratories. Our internship program can help to realise a similar experience for our undergraduate students.” 

“The program gives high performing students the opportunity to develop and hone their practical and research skills, learning how research is done by working alongside a PhD student, research fellow, academic, or at an external research workplace.” 

Tim said he has always had an interest in science, particularly the science of the human body and how it works, adding that he is constantly trying to find the perfect exercise program to help him become a better professional basketball player. 

“I have come to realise, as I have gotten older, that my passion lies in the field of health and fitness. I get excited about working in a team environment, or even one on one with individuals that either want to get the most out of their bodies (like athletes), or people who just want to be healthy and happy.” 

“After I finish my degree, I hope that I can go on to complete a masters. I then hope to work as a strength and conditioning coach at the professional level. I also want to do more study in the field of nutrition.”