Thomas Watson is getting a taste of the range of work done within the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) in Canberra.

As one of 56 new graduates at the DAFF, Thomas has been training and working in areas such as biotechnology and biosecurity.

Having graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Genetics and Molecular Cell Biology) in 2005, he is currently working in a team of eight people providing technical and administrative support to the Joint Steering Group for an Australian Biosecurity System for Primary Production and the Environment, the body which maintains and improves Australia’s biosecurity status.

His daily jobs have been preparing background reports for ministers, responding to and handling correspondence from the public and senior public servants and organising meetings for biosecurity updates. One of his background reports involved a range of studies investigating biotechnology issues such as genetically modified canola.

“The most enjoyable element of my work is that I am able to use a range of skills everyday in a positive and constructive work environment,” Thomas said.

The 21-year-old said UQ helped improve his detailed research and analytical skills and teamwork experience, which gave him the edge over other applicants for his position. His advice to students was not to focus only on money.

“It is more important to look at your career as a whole and the opportunities that it brings,” he said.

“Although there are many jobs paying better money, a good career and job satisfaction is what will keep you coming to work each day.”

Thomas is working on a Diploma of Government as part of his graduate program and hopes to start a Masters of Public Policy next year. He is looking forward to continuing within the public service.