Few siblings may boast achievements on par with Catherine and Elizabeth Dietrich.
The 22-year-old twins finished 2018 with freshly minted first class honours from the Australian National University and will begin 2019 as research fellows.
Graduated on December 11, the Junee siblings completed separate yet similar degrees.
Catherine completed hers in genetics, observing age-related macular degeneration.
“Specifically, it was about complement-causing inflammation, and the sorts of therapies that could help to reduce inflammation,” Catherine said.
Elizabeth placed her honours in psychology, after spending a year determining the unique and subtle differences between a genuine and fake smile.
“I looked into the way people smile, how there tends to be wrinkling or bagging around the eyes, and what that means,” said Elizabeth.
With her acceptance for the PhD program at Australian National University, Elizabeth will continue her research in the coming year.
Likewise, Catherine has also accepted a full three-year PhD scholarship to continue her research at the John Curtin School at Australian National University.
“It’s a very unique situation, to be graduating with honours on the same day as your sister,” said Catherine.
“I’m pretty proud that I got to do it, and that we’ll both be going on to PhD next year.”
Emma Horn
National videographer, filmmaker, and editor. Former features and weekender writer for The Daily Advertiser. Small, quiet, and a student of the Julie Bishop School Of Staring. Usually dressed in something colourful, always snacking on something homemade. Friend to most mothers and all dogs. Got stories? Get in touch. emma.horn@austcommunitymedia.com.au
National videographer, filmmaker, and editor. Former features and weekender writer for The Daily Advertiser. Small, quiet, and a student of the Julie Bishop School Of Staring. Usually dressed in something colourful, always snacking on something homemade. Friend to most mothers and all dogs. Got stories? Get in touch. emma.horn@austcommunitymedia.com.au
