CSL working with ATSE to support the next generation of STEM professionals
CSL mentors support early-career researchers and professionals to explore new pathways, build confidence and better understand careers across Australia’s STEM sector.
The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) is proud to recognise the valued support of CSL, a global biotechnology leader and Australian health technology success story, for its commitment to mentoring the next generation of STEM professionals through ATSE’s Industry Mentoring Network in STEM (IMNIS) program.
Through the IMNIS program in 2025, CSL made available 5 of their experts to serve as mentors to early career professionals looking for an introduction to new careers and pathways in STEM.
With a legacy spanning over 100 years of serving patients and public health, CSL is a world-class health care innovator across plasma, recombinant protein therapies and vaccines. CSL’s dedication to saving and improving lives strongly aligns with IMNIS’s mission to equip emerging STEM talent with the confidence, connections and career understanding needed to thrive in the workforce.
Through the generosity of their mentors, IMNIS participants gain invaluable insights into industry careers, expand their professional networks, and build the skills to navigate the next steps of the career journeys. Over 10 years, the IMNIS program has supported hundreds of mentees to take on new and exciting careers, building a network of ambitious and talented STEM professionals throughout Australian industry, academia and government.
Empowering emerging STEM leaders through mentorship
CSL's mentors bring deep expertise across many aspects of technology and business: research innovation, data science, pharmacovigilance (the science and activities related to the understanding and preventing adverse effects from medicines and vaccines), quality systems and business development. Together, they help mentees make informed choices about their future careers, build self-belief and understand the wide-ranging opportunities across Australia’s biotechnology and life sciences sectors.
Helen Tower, Manager – Quality by Design
Helen is the Manager for Quality by Design at CSL, responsible for using a scientific and risk-based approach to enable consistent delivery of high-quality products to their patients.
My aim as a mentor is to share my passion for science and pay it forward to the scientific community. The IMNIS program is a fantastic opportunity for mentees and mentors alike, where we can learn from each other and strengthen an inclusive, innovative and collaborative STEM workforce.
Pauline Deng, Global Pharmacovigilance Compliance Manager
Pauline oversees compliance, continuous improvement and performance across CSL’s global pharmacovigilance system. As a CSL Graduate Program alumna, she brings valuable early-career insight to her mentees.
I am passionate about mentoring emerging STEM professionals because I found it challenging to enter the workforce post-degree. Now that I am in industry, I see endless opportunities and want to pass on helpful advice and support. I have mentored excellent mentees who have taught me a lot, and I am equally grateful to my own mentors who have shaped my career.
Dr Priscilla Hong, Senior Manager, Research Innovation (APAC)
Priscilla leads collaborative research partnerships that drive innovation across the Asia–Pacific region. She sees a clear alignment between CSL’s values and the IMNIS mentoring framework.
"Innovation, collaboration and superior performance are important CSL core values. Mentoring allows discussion of innovative ideas and fosters collaboration between mentor and mentee to work together towards the best outcome," said Dr Priscilla Hong
I love engaging with IMNIS mentees and being part of their journey to build self- confidence and choose a career that plays to their strengths. It’s refreshing to hear new perspectives and gain new understanding.
Dr Celine Latouche, Associate Director, Global Business Development & Licensing
Celine supports CSL’s strategic partnerships and licensing opportunities, helping shape the company’s long-term innovation pipeline. She values the opportunity to guide mentees through early career decisions.
Collaborating with IMNIS over the last few years has been a pleasure and a rewarding experience. I’ve enjoyed meeting enthusiastic people at the start of their journey and supporting them with their various needs, from understanding the sector to getting ready for their next positions.
A shared commitment to strengthening Australia’s STEM ecosystem
CSL’s continuing contribution of mentors to the IMNIS program reflects its commitment to nurturing talent and fostering innovation across the STEM landscape. By supporting early-career researchers and students, CSL mentors are contributing to a more skilled, inclusive and future-focused STEM workforce that can address global challenges and advance scientific discovery.
ATSE extends its sincere thanks to CSL and its dedicated mentors for their leadership, generosity and commitment to empowering Australia’s next generation of STEM professionals.
