Returning to uni as a biotechnology postgraduate could lead you to a more fulfilling career path – just like it did for Sumedha ‘Sky’ Seth.
Since graduating from UQ with a Master of Biotechnology Research Extensive, Sky has been using her scientific expertise to make a true impact on the world of healthcare. We spoke with her about why she chose to pursue her postgraduate degree in biotechnology, how she benefitted from the program, and what she’s doing now.
Biotech at UQ doesn’t just give you skills; it gives you a platform. It lets you be part of something bigger – a story of science that changes lives.
What inspired you to become a postgraduate in biotechnology?
Sky: Growing up, I saw people in my community struggle to access advanced healthcare, and it lit a fire in me to be part of the solution.
I was drawn to biotechnology because it turns bold ideas – like curing diseases or delivering vaccines – into reality. Knowing that a discovery in the lab can transform lives around the world is what sparked my passion, and it still keeps me motivated every day.
During the pandemic, I saw how quickly vaccine platforms could move from research to saving lives. That cemented my passion for being at the interface, that bridge between science and application, where research turns into delivery and becomes accessible to the public. I’ve been fortunate to carry that forward at Vaxxas, where the key driver is to give power back to people through self-administration and make vaccines more accessible, even in remote communities.
“When you see a patch carrying a vaccine instead of a syringe, you realise biotechnology isn’t just science – it’s access, equity, and impact!”
What was your path to studying the Master of Biotechnology?
Sky: I did my undergraduate in engineering back home in India, but I realised I wanted to bridge engineering with biology to solve medical challenges. Alongside my degree, I gained exposure to research and came to appreciate the painstaking effort it takes to translate discoveries into outcomes. I wanted to build on that foundation in a global environment, and UQ’s Master of Biotechnology offered exactly that – combining academic excellence with placements and industry exposure. It became the launchpad for my career.
Why did you choose UQ for your biotechnology postgraduate study?
Sky: I chose UQ because I wanted a program that went beyond the classroom. The strong research–industry ecosystem in Queensland meant I could be part of a community where innovation is deeply connected to application.
How has the Master of Biotechnology helped you achieve your career goals and find success in your field?
Sky: UQ gave me more than a qualification – it gave me a platform. The degree opened doors to placements, collaborations, and networks that shaped my career. It gave me the tools to contribute to COVID-19 vaccine development, lead mRNA innovation, and now engineer next-generation vaccine delivery platforms. Biotech at UQ doesn’t just give you skills; it gives you a platform. It lets you be part of something bigger – a story of science that changes lives.
Which biotechnology postgraduate courses and teachers helped you the most?
Sky: I’m deeply grateful to my mentors.
My first internship with Dr Parwinder Kaur set me on track, and her encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue studies in Australia. Later, I had the chance to work on an industry-focused research project with Dr Christopher Howard and continued collaborating with Dr Kaur during my summer break. Their belief in me gave me the courage to aim higher and shaped the direction of my career.
The courses that integrated science with commercialisation (Business Planning in Biotechnology, Biologics, and Quality Management Systems) were especially impactful because they showed me how to take a discovery from the benchtop to manufacturing, the translation step crucial in my field.
“What excites me most is when knowledge stops being theory and becomes something you can deliver.”
UQ also provided the environment to make that transition possible through its research and industry programs. I was selected as a Winter Research Scholar, a paid program that gave me first-hand experience in collaborative projects and showed me how closely UQ’s institutes work together to support research across disciplines.
Finally, my 1-year industry placement at the UQ Protein Expression Facility was rigorous but transformative, giving me the confidence and skills to step directly into industry.
How did returning to study impact your routine, and what did you do to prepare for this change?
Sky: Going back to uni – and moving countries to do it – definitely shook up my life! Life changed pace quickly as I found myself juggling coursework, research projects, and even a part-time role as a student ambassador. It was challenging at first, but I handled it by building a little ‘family’ of friends and mentors at UQ; we supported each other through late-night lab experiments and assignment deadlines. Embracing the change taught me resilience and showed me the power of community – I never felt alone on the journey.
I prepared by building both academic strength and resilience. My undergraduate engineering degree gave me the foundation, and I sought out internships across different research areas to gain as much hands-on experience as possible.
I also applied for a scholarship from UQ (which thankfully I received) to ease the financial transition. That support was a huge relief financially and gave me the confidence to commit fully to my studies and life in Australia.
“I knew moving countries would be a big shift, so I prepared myself to embrace change, lean on mentors, and stay open to opportunities. What carried me through was a willingness to work diligently and keep learning, no matter how unfamiliar the challenge. I learned early that preparation isn’t just about skills; it’s about mindset – being ready to adapt and grow.”
What did your average day look like as a postgrad student?
Sky: In the first year, my days were filled with coursework and lab sessions. In the second year, I shifted into more research and placements. That gradual change mirrored my own growth from student to scientist, making the transition into industry feel natural.
What do you do now, and does your average workday look like?
Sky: I work at Vaxxas, a UQ spin-out developing needle-free vaccine delivery patches. I started as a formulation scientist and now also contribute as a process engineer. My role focuses on improving protein- and mRNA-based formulations for delivery via a novel microprojection device, ensuring stability, performance, and alignment with regulatory standards. I also help design and scale-up processes so that these innovations are ready for clinical trials and, ultimately, global impact.
“I feel incredibly lucky that my work allows me to combine cutting-edge science with a mission to make healthcare more accessible.”
No two days are alike. I might spend the morning refining formulations or analysing data, and the afternoon with engineers and quality specialists to ensure we are well-prepared for technology transfer into GMP environments. My role isn’t siloed, either – one hour I’m at the bench pipetting samples, the next I’m streamlining processes, removing bottlenecks, or mapping out the product development roadmap.
The most rewarding part is seeing an idea come to life and knowing that every improvement brings us closer to a future where vaccines are easier to deliver and more accessible worldwide. It’s exciting work, but it’s the shared purpose – and the team I get to work alongside – that truly inspire me to give my best every day.
What advice would you give someone considering postgraduate study in biotechnology?
Sky: Say yes to every opportunity: placements, projects, events, and mentors. Each experience adds a new dimension to your journey and helps you discover where your strengths truly lie.
UQ has so much to offer, and Queensland’s biotech ecosystem is expanding rapidly, with opportunities across many different specialties to step into. Explore widely, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to enter areas you might not have imagined for yourself – that’s where the biggest growth often happens.
How can you study a biotechnology postgraduate degree at UQ?
There are 2 key programs available for biotechnology postgraduates at UQ:
If you’re interested in a master’s degree in a different but related field, you could also consider the:
- Master of Environmental Management
- Master of Science
- Master of Molecular Biology
- Master of Bioinformatics
- Master of Biostatistics
- Master of Food Science and Technology
Not sure if you’re prepared to go back to study? Download our guide to getting postgrad-ready in 6 months.
