Michelle Livett

Multispectral and hyperspectral image analysis of elemental and micro-Raman maps of cross-sections from a 16th century painting

Spectroscopic imaging is well suited to the study of micro-samples from artworks, where the sample material is limited and the maximum amount of information needs to be obtained. In this study, a new approach to imaging elemental data from energy dispersive X-ray analysis maps was used in conjunction with micro-Raman spectroscopic imaging to characterise the paint layers within micro-samples. Cross-sections from the 16th century painting Portrait of a Youth were found to contain vermilion, lead-tin yellow type 1 and a blue-green pigment consistent with terre-verte. The mid-preparatory layer (imprimatura) contains a high proportion of elements and mineral inclusions that indicates a clay-type composition. The ground layer was identified as anhydrite with large gypsum inclusions. The pigments and composition of the preparatory layers are consistent with those used by Italian Renaissance artist Dosso Dossi.

Fostering International Student Exchanges for Science Students.

This article outlines an ongoing initiative that was also part of the “Navigating Other Cultures” project at the University of Melbourne. It seeks to address the underrepresentation of science students from this university in international exchange programs. It includes a brief literature review that highlights the intrinsically international nature of science, the need for more internationally competent graduates, and benefits of international experiences for students. Two surveys were designed and administered. The first was intended to gain essential information about the reasons that so few science students choose to undertake international exchange programs. The second asked science faculty staff to provide information about the nature and perceived value of their own international experiences. The findings of both surveys are used to propose future strategies to foster greater participation in international exchanges by science students.

What does a physics undergraduate education give you? A perspective from Australian physics

In a study to assess how effectively undergraduate physics studies have prepared students for the workplace, we attempted to locate and interview traditional 3-year or 4-year physics students who had graduated in the past five years (2000 to 2004), and the employers of these graduates. The study was limited to recent graduates who have majored in physics and not obtained further or concurrent degrees. Overseas studies of the destinations of physics graduates referred to in this paper have not isolated the group we interviewed as a distinct group. A major finding was that the number of these graduates was unexpectedly low. Indeed, most physics graduates have two degrees. Interviews with graduates and employers suggest that physics graduates have particular strengths in problem solving and are good at applying their skills at the workplace.