This year, Bayer ANZ partnered with The Hon Paul Fletcher MP - Shadow Minister for Science and the Arts and local member for Bradfield - to host a special event at Hornsby Girls High School in Sydney.
We looked at how novel ideas are transforming our world and celebrated the incredible women who are making it happen. We heard the inspiring stories of three remarkable women from Bayer ANZ: Lakshmi, Tiziana and Alexandra who shared their journey, offering a glimpse into the challenges they've faced and the victories they've achieved on their way to making significant contributions to science and innovation. You can find their stories below.
These women are at the forefront of science, making discoveries that change lives. They work at the crossroads of technology and health, to ensure medical and scientific interventions are safe. They also combine technology and art to communicate science with a range of audiences.
Lakshmi: Pioneering Engineering Solutions
Lakshmi Bettadapura's expertise in engineering has led to significant advancements in manufacturing processes within the healthcare sector. Her commitment to continuous improvement and her ability to lead her team in developing efficient manufacturing methods exemplify the critical role of engineering in improving lives.
Lakshmi is an Engineering Manager at Bayer, Radiology with more than 16 years of experience in manufacturing, project engineering and new product introduction within Medical Device and Power Generation industries.
By focusing on continuous improvement and efficiency gain in the CT injector systems’ manufacturing, Lakshmi has been able to put the Industrial & Production Engineering’ degree she has earned at ‘The National Institute of Engineering’ to good use.
Lakshmi's passion for her work and her dedication to the vision of 'Health for All' highlight the profound impact that innovative engineering solutions can have on society.
When she’s not at work, Lakshmi is an avid traveller and loves spending time with her family watching travel vlogs and movies.
Tiziana: Bridging Worlds with Microbiology
Tiziana's story in molecular biology began in Italy, where her fascination with the impact of microscopic cells sets her on a path that would take her across continents. After gaining valuable experience as a research assistant, she moved to Sydney in 2016 to pursue a PhD in microbial genomics. This endeavour allowed her to delve deeper into the molecular mechanisms governing antimicrobial resistance. Post-PhD, Tiziana transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, seeking to explore research through the perspective of clinical trials.
She currently serves as a Project Manager at Bayer, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting clinical sites across Australia with the collection of real-world evidence data.
Her journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and the impact of science beyond the laboratory.
Alexandra: Advocating for Agricultural Innovation
The narrative of Alexandra Bunton is one of dedication to the future of agriculture.
She joined Bayer in 2021 and is currently Senior Manager – Public Affairs for Bayer’s crop science business in ANZ, managing the company’s high-level relationships with government and stakeholders.
With a rich background in agricultural policy and a clear vision for the potential of innovative farming technologies, Alexandra's work is pivotal in ensuring that farmers have access to the tools they need to succeed.
After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies, she found a practical application for her sustainability knowledge by working in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. This sparked a love of working with the farm sector and creating positive change for farmers and the environment.
Her story underscores the importance of combining both scientific and communications expertise to drive sustainable practices and secure food sources for future generations.
The stories of Lakshmi, Tiziana and Alexandra are but a few examples of the incredible talent and determination that women bring to the fields of science and technology. Their journeys, shared during National Science Week, serve as powerful reminders of the importance of fostering an environment where innovation can flourish and where diverse voices are heard and valued.
As we reflect on the insights gained from this event, it's clear that the path to innovation is enriched by diversity and the unique perspectives that each individual brings to the table.
In the spirit of National Science Week, let's continue to champion the women who are leading the way in innovation, providing them with the support, resources, and recognition they deserve.
Together, we can pave the way for a future where every discovery and every advancement are a step towards a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative world.