Inside the Young Researchers Club: Supporting the next generation of scientists

Founded in 2019 by Sam Old and Yasmin Nouri, the Malaghan's Young Researchers Club (YRC) was created to make that journey less daunting. From the beginning, the goal was simple: to create an environment where early-career scientists, including Master's and PhD students, could engage openly. It became a place to meet visiting speakers, practice presentations, and most importantly, ask the kinds of 'silly questions' that might feel intimidating in a formal research setting. Alongside this, the YRC offers peer support, advice-sharing and skill development across the institute. 

"The Young Researchers Club reflects something we care deeply about at the Malaghan - nurturing the next generation of scientists who will make the discoveries behind tomorrow's treatments. It creates a sense of community, builds confidence, and helps early-career scientists develop the skills and networks they need to thrive," says Professor Kjesten Wiig, Director of the Malaghan Institute. 

While the YRC has evolved over time, expanding its workshops and events, it has remained grounded in these core principles. Today, it continues to offer a relaxed, low-pressure environment that prioritises connection as much as development. Unlike formal networking opportunities, the YRC focuses on building genuine relationships, creating a sense of community among scientists at similar stages of their careers. That sense of community has a tangible impact.

“As a young researcher, there is often a struggle with imposter syndrome,” says Research Officer Lauren Goodman. “YRC creates a space where we can remind each other that even if we are among the youngest or least experienced in the room, we still deserve to be there.”

For many members, the YRC also opens doors that extend beyond the Malaghan Institute. Master’s student Louise Cameron recalls meeting a visiting speaker whose insights helped shape the direction of her own career. “I found his career pathway really intriguing, so I followed up with him afterwards. He has since become my mentor, allowing me to gain an industry perspective on my Master’s project.”

Beyond individual experiences, the YRC also plays an important role in bringing researchers together across disciplines. “It provides support not just within our teams, but across the entire institute,” says PhD student Caitlin Dorset, “helping to break down any compartmentalisation that can occur between research groups.”

One recent example of the YRC’s impact in action was a panel event featuring experienced scientists sharing honest reflections on their careers. The panel featured a diverse group of scientific leaders, including Dr Katherine Robichon from the University of Otago, Wellington, and Professor Rebecca Priestly from Victoria University; along with the Malaghan’s Chief Technology Officer Kylie Price and Programme Manager, Dr Janice Cheng.

Young Researchers Club Career Panel speakers and Young Researchers Club members pictured left to right: Caitlin Dorset, Kylie Price, Louise Cameron, Dr Rebecca Priestley, Dr Katharina Robichon, Lauren Goodman and Janice Cheng.

The goal was to provide a broader perspective on potential pathways in science, while creating space for conversations that don’t happen in day-to-day research environments. Discussions ranged from career progression and work-life balance to the realities of navigating challenges in science, including the experiences of being women in STEM. What stood out most was the openness of the speakers, who shared candid and personal insights into their journeys. 

A recurring theme was the role of failure as an essential part of growth.

“I have a continuous improvement philosophy – everything teaches me something,” said Kylie Price. “Knowledge comes from failure, not success.”

Other panelists echoed this sentiment. “I just kept going… you haven’t failed –  that door might not just be open for you yet,” shared Professor Rebecca Priestley, while Dr Katharina Robichon emphasised the importance of persistence: “Failure is one thing I’ve learned. But you need to just be persistent.”

Together, these perspectives reinforced a powerful message: progress in science is rarely linear, and resilient is just as important as discovery. The importance of connection also emerged as a key theme. “Networking extends your knowledge beyond your reach,” said Kylie Price. “You might not have the answer but know someone who does.”

For young researchers, these insights offered reassurance, highlighting that uncertainty, challenge and growth are shared experiences.

The positive response from the panel event has opened the door for future conversations and collaborations, just one example of the positive outcomes from YRC’s initiatives. Looking ahead, YRC’s vision remains clear: to continue fostering a supportive environment where young researchers can grow together, build meaningful connections and develop useful skills for their careers ahead.

By creating space for honest conversations and mutual support, the YRC is helping to shape not just the journeys of our next generation of scientists, but the future of science itself.