Success Story - International scientist joins staff of Charles Sturt University
Pharmacy and science students at Charles Sturt University's (CSU) campuses in regional New South Wales are benefiting from world class facilities and a truly international teaching programme.
Doctor Devinder Singh Arora has joined the staff in the School of Biomedical Sciences at the university's Wagga Wagga campus and is already passing on the knowledge and experience he gained from study and work at universities in India and the United States.
Since taking up the position in July, the 32-year-old Indian national has been involved in teaching biotechnology, pharmacy and medical science students.
Associate Professor Lyndall Angel, head of the School of Biomedical Sciences, said Devinder was an asset to the pharmacy course at CSU.
‘I'm excited about the different approach he brings to our pharmacy programme’, Lyndall said.
‘The richness of his experience will broaden the students' understanding of science and give even more depth to the course.
‘So far his interaction with students and staff has been excellent.’
Devinder completed a doctorate in pharmacy and pharmacology in India before undertaking post-doctoral training at the University of California and University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre.
He was sponsored by the university under the Australian Government's temporary business (long stay) subclass 457 visa programme after a suitably qualified candidate was unable to be found in Australia to fill the position.
‘I think I have a bright future here,’ Devinder said.
Charles Sturt University was the first to offer a pharmacy course in regional Australia and has one of the most advanced laboratories in the country.
‘It's exciting because the course is specifically designed to supply pharmacists to rural and regional areas of Australia while still ensuring readiness for practice anywhere in the world,’ Devinder said.
'In a relatively short time CSU is competing with the best universities in the region and internationally.'
Devinder said his aim is to be a good teacher and to carry out research in pharmacology.
‘My aim is to provide students with a deeper understanding so that they can appreciate their responsibility in society and medicine.
‘After all, this is where they will spend their working lives.’
When he is not at work, Devinder is making the most of his new life in Wagga Wagga with his wife Raj.
While science is his passion, his other interests include jogging, cycling, photography and writing poems. A spiritual man, Devinder said he tries to reject the greed and commercialism of this world for 'the pursuit of eternal peace'.
Education providers like CSU comprised a significant proportion of temporary business (long stay) subclass 457 visa applicants last year, with 1960 granted in 2005-06.
Many of the temporary skilled migrants play a vital role in the Australian economy. Skilled professionals like Dr Arora help businesses, industry and education providers meet their labour needs.
The temporary business (long stay) subclass 457 visa programme is important in regional areas like Wagga Wagga where it is hard for employers to attract and retain staff.
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