James Henderson (ON 2008) ONU Centennial Trust 2015 Recipient 

The 2015 ONU Centennial Trust endowment recipient of $10,000, James Henderson, attributes his fascination with cell biology and cancer, in particular, to his Year 12 Biology teacher, Mr Graham Potter. James’ captivation with Science at school became a realisation that he could genuinely make a difference if he pursued biomedical research.

After excelling during his Bachelor of Science majoring in Biochemistry and Pharmacology and completing his Honours (Research) year in cellular pathology at the Storr Liver Unit at the Millennium Institute, Westmead, James went on to continue his passion for research in his PhD studies. He is currently half way through a PhD at the Centenary Institute (RPA Hospital) at the University of Sydney investigating hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) and researching possible preventatives and treatments. James will present his data at the International Proteolysis Conference in Penang, Malaysia later this year.

James is looking forward sharing his enthusiasm with current students at the ONU Careers evenings to cultivate their interests and identify future study and research possibilities in Science. James is pictured above with Trust Chairman, Dr Rod Thomas (ON 1960).

For more information and to apply for 2016 click here.

Progress Report from Cambridge – 2014 ONU Centennial Trust Recipient Edmond Cheng (ON 2013)

My first year at Cambridge has flown by more quickly than I could ever have imagined. Three eight-week terms came and went in the blink of an eye and barely had I adjusted to the English climate, people and education system before it was all over. Nevertheless, it was an incredible experience that has left me much more knowledgeable and mature.

The academic rigor ensured by the tutorial system and its low student-to-teacher ratio is not overstated and really is what sets Cambridge apart as an undergraduate academic institution. Despite perhaps not performing as well as I would have liked in the final examinations, I can say without any hesitation that I have absorbed an overwhelming amount of material and more importantly, I have learnt to approach any information from a sceptical, analytical viewpoint, a skill which will no doubt serve me well.

Cambridge has also allowed me to continue what I started at Newington, in terms of maintaining a high degree of extracurricular involvement: President of the College Economics Society, Junior Treasurer of the University Go Society, College Volleyball Captain, Careers Director of the University Finance Society, University Bridge Club, College Badminton team. This broad and deep involvement helped me meet a truly wondrous range of talented individuals and enriched my first year at Cambridge.

While I am glad to be back in Sydney with family and friends, I can honestly say that I am very keen to return to Cambridge and continue this amazing journey.

Edmond Cheng (ON 2013) Recipient of the 2014 ONU Centennial Trust Endowment of $10,000