Investing in the STEM workforce: microbiological safety in Australian secondary schools

Microbiology is increasingly being incorporated into secondary school biology curricula, an important component of science technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) training. The microbiological competency teachers the availability skilled laboratory technicians that understand risks involved reasoning behind restrictions to protocols vital for safe execution microbiology experiments in schools. addition gene-modification curricula increases complexity experimental set-up potentially exacerbates existing deficiencies technique disinfection practice. There currently no targeted national program up-skill or technicians, which can leave these staff vulnerable positions if they are asked co-ordinate beyond their expertise. It such training available, preferably as part well-planned professional development continued online support provided answer questions swiftly assist STEM conduct safely. Improved integration between universities high schools be beneficial this regard, not only teaching schools, but also collaborative links formed universities.