In this photo from the 2020 SIBS workshop in Canberra, students and mentors teamed up to form the iconic delta symbol – the classic mark of isotopic ratios. A perfect snapshot of the creativity and camaraderie that define SIBS!
Chasing the Storm
During SIBS 2020, a surprise hailstorm hit Canberra with golf ball–sized hail. Instead of running for cover, we grabbed our vials! Soon we were sampling hailstones to analyse how isotope ratios vary from surface to core — pure scientific curiosity in action!
Attending SIBS 2018 in Hawkesbury as a student was a turning point for me. I learned techniques I still use today and connected with an inspiring community of isotope enthusiasts. Since then, isotopes have become a core part of my research, and I’ve had the privilege of returning to other SIBS events as a lecturer and mentor. Looking back, I’m grateful for both experiences, learning and later giving back.