How can Ruby Dixon, who hasn’t even graduated yet, already call herself an experienced research scientist? Because as part of her PhB program, she has taken part in half a dozen lab projects, including ones at Oxford and McGill University. 

Ruby says doing the PhB means you have a “totally different” student experience, one that allows you to do practical research from the very start of your degree.

“It was only because I was doing a PhB, and so doing all these lab projects, that I discovered I really like lab work. Now I’m pursuing that with honours.”

Ruby grew up in Canberra and says the decision to stay here for university was easy for her.

“I really like Canberra. It’s a city, but not too big and not too small.”

And, funnily enough, living at home with her parents has allowed Ruby to spend more time away from Canberra throughout her studies.

“It means I can spend my money on fun things, like exchange and travel, rather than rent.”

Ruby says she was excited to go away to Oxford and McGill but is “happy to be back” in Canberra again, and now doing honours in chemistry.

“I originally did the PhB because it allowed me to combine music and science, and I wasn’t even particularly interested in chemistry. The good thing about the PhB is it has that kind of flexibility so you can pursue another path if you discover you really enjoy it.”

As for the next path in Ruby’s life, that’s flexible too, she says.

“Let me get back to you.”