Dương Hưng Phát

My project has two main research areas: Medicinal Chemistry and Chemistry Outreach Research.

In the Medicinal Chemistry Research, I make novel drug-like molecules and work with other researchers to combat a fungal infection called mycetoma.

In my Chemistry Outreach Research, my role was to evaluate a HSC chemistry workshop, Kickstart Spectroscopy, and understand the impact on workshop participants.

My research takes place at the School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, on the Camperdown main campus. For my Medicinal Chemistry Research, I work in the laboratory to make new molecules, which are then shipped overseas for biological testing.

Regarding my Chemistry Outreach Research, I recently conducted surveys and interviews with students, demonstrators and teachers who attended the Kickstart Spectroscopy workshops. I then analysed this data to identify common themes and important findings about the impact of the workshops.

For my Medical Chemistry Research, I have identified chemical structures that contribute to strong biological activity against the mycetoma fungus. These findings allow for future research to make more potent anti-mycetoma drugs.

For my Chemistry Outreach Research, I've found that student's confidence grew as they participated in the workshops, better preparing them for their HSC exams.

As my research interests are diverse, I find it challenging to quickly switch focusses between the two areas of research. With plenty of practice, I'm now able to manage the time and energy needed to progress both aspects of my research projects.