She was married up with Gresford Public School who was looking to implement the program last year.

And her involvement has won her an Education Week award for outstanding contribution by a school community member.

The school also received an award for their implementation of the program.

“Dr Wright first began her affiliation with the school last year with her offer to support the school in the presentation of the science syllabus on a regular basis,” said principal Pauline Mitchell.

“As a result of a successful first year of the program’s operation, the weekly science focus led by Dr Wright, has become an integral part of the school week.

“It is highly valued by teachers, students and parents and has resulted in the heightened profile of science in the school.”

Dr Wright started her career 30 years ago as a research scientist working with plants, in particular tobacco with the CSIRO.

After living and working in the Northern Territory for a number of years, she returned to Sydney and switched to cancer research at the University of Sydney.

“I did my master’s degree in cancer medicine and also worked at the IVF unit at North Shore Hospital as well as in diabetes and pharmacy.

“I then spent 10 years working in infectious diseases at Westmead Hospital.

“I retired from that three years ago and moved to Dungog with husband Kim.”

Dr Wright was aware of the CSIRO scientists program in schools and they match schools with scientists.

“I heard back from the CSIRO that Gresford was interested and I have been here every Monday for two years,” she said.

“I work with the year 3-6 teachers in the morning and the kinder to year 2 after lunch.

“I take one year separately each Monday and the teachers take the other students and we rotate around the classes.

“The main emphasis is for the children to participate in the classes.”

The students are able to do exciting things like making DNA from bananas, separate colours in a leaf, make volcanoes, and a greenhouse from cut off drink bottles.

“I enjoy getting tricky questions from the students – it keeps me on my toes,” Dr Wright said.

“I am happy to stay here as long as they want me – it’s an ongoing commitment.”