Intern program gives students commercial experience

The University of Southern Queensland's (USQ) Office of Commercialisation has launched an Intern Program to offer on-campus students experience in commercial projects.

As part of the program interns work with experienced business executives in commercialising USQ research and business opportunities.

Program Co-ordinator Sebastien Hebert said the internships give students exposure to real projects and commercial situations.

'This is an excellent opportunity for interns to gain experience in market transfer of University knowledge as well as become more 'industry ready' in their chosen discipline,' Mr Hebert said.

Interns undertake market analysis, patent searches, business plan development, participate in commercial project teams and are assisted in research skills and techniques by the USQ library.

'The Intern Program suits students from any faculty and is attracting interest from both undergraduate and postgraduate students,' he said.

Interns are currently involved in a range of projects including agricultural products, telecommunication systems, computer game technology and online education products.

Masters in Sustainability Science student Marcus Ritchie is completing his internship with the Office of Commercialisation and said it had been an insightful experience.

'I'm working on a project which involves researching aspects of possible commercialisation of an idea,' Mr Ritchie said.

'I'm doing research in a couple of discrete areas to add information to the business case.

'It has given me a chance to learn about the business side of things and contribute in a practical way.'

Mr Hebert said feedback from interns has been positive.

'Interns have appreciated that these projects are not theoretical and involve real money and issues,' he said.

'They actively participate in a commercial team and become quite knowledgeable of the business opportunity by the end of the project which assists with their overall USQ experience and has them leaving USQ as graduates with real business experience.'

Interns spend a maximum of 18 months in the Program and may work on up to three major projects during this time. 

For information on the intern program, contact Sebastien Hebert on 4631 1642 or email hebert@usq.edu.au.

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559