BHP is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the John Monash Foundation, supporting the next generation of Australian leaders through the prestigious John Monash Scholarships. Since 2012, BHP has sponsored outstanding scholars who are committed to driving innovation, scientific discovery and positive change. 

At this year’s presentation ceremony, we were honoured to celebrate Rhona, the 2025 BHP John Monash scholar. With a background in physics, Rhona will undertake a PhD that applies photonics techniques to further explain the biology of the brain. 

“In my PhD I will be using advanced microscopy methods to study the dynamics of fluid clearance in the brain, with the potential to improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s Disease.” 

Rhona will be undertaking her studies at St Andrews in Scotland. When asked what excited her the most, she said “I’m really excited about the opportunity the PhD provides to transition from pure physics to a more interdisciplinary field, and the lab at St Andrews feels like it’s really well positioned at a nexus of both cutting edge physics and biomedical research.” 

Her approach will lead interdisciplinary research groups to answer crucial questions at the intersection of physics and biology to improve the health outcomes of Australians.  

She is passionate to make a difference in the lives of those around her, and has demonstrated this through her commitment to leadership, administrating community sports and collaborating to organise student conferences. 

BHP believes in investing in people who push the boundaries of knowledge and technology to create a better future. We congratulate Rhona and all this year’s scholars, and look forward to seeing their contributions to science, society and the world. 

The John Monash Scholarship for postgraduate study overseas is awarded in the spirit of General Sir John Monash, a remarkable Australian who believed that education is not given for individual benefit, but for the higher duties of citizens who seek to advance society. 

Find out more about the scholarships here.