Celebrating excellence at the 2026 Student Academic Awards Presentation

Last night's Student Academic Awards shone a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of Biomedicine students who showed exceptional dedication and a passion for learning throughout the 2025 academic year.

The event brought together students, families and staff at University House to recognise excellence across a range of academic subjects and disciplines.

Held annually, the awards ceremony features 22 awards across the School of Biomedical Sciences’ Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, and Department Microbiology and Immunology.

Head of School Professor Jennifer Wilkinson-Berka warmly welcomed the 28 award winners, family and friends before Heads of Departments and key faculty members presented the awards.

“This is an important evening on our calendar as we acknowledge a handful of students who’ve done amazing work,” Professor Wilkinson-Berka said, highlighting the school’s location within a world-class biomedical precinct offering future opportunities for students.

She also acknowledged the valued role of teachers in the school and invited those present to applaud them. “Our teachers are highly skilled ... That’s absolutely required to produce great researchers, doctors and others.”

Professor Stuart Ralph, Head of the Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, spoke about the life-changing power of education.

“We have a responsibility not to provide a transaction but to transform students,” he said. “That’s something that is very dear to us and that’s the tremendous opportunity that you can get through education at a place like the University of Melbourne.”

Professor Andrew Brooks, Head of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology fondly recalled his years as a student and how they ignited twin passions – research and teaching. He made note of the different skills needed at undergraduate level, for honours studies and beyond, adding “we want to be learning throughout life”.

Professor Lizzie Coulson, Head of the Department of Anatomy and Physiology, welcomed the chance to “champion those people who have done so well across these subjects and hope that they will go on to many varied careers in advancing biomedicine.”

We congratulate all the award winners on their high academic performance, curiosity, growth and determination.

Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology winners

Department of Anatomy and Physiology winners

Department of Microbiology and Immunology winners