How biomedicine student Rhian went from adversity to Harvard University

VU offered me a chance to succeed. I’m testament to the philosophy that Year 12 scores do not define your talent – when a student finds their niche and interest they can excel.

Rhian Stavely
Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Biomedical Science), Doctor of Philosophy

With the support of VU’s dedicated staff, Rhian Stavely rose from disappointing VCE results to earning a PhD at VU focusing on stem cell therapies for bowel disease: kicking off a career that would eventually see him become a Harvard University researcher. 

"I grew up in Westmeadows with my hard-working mother and three siblings who all encouraged my curiosity and desire for education. My Year 12 results were meagre, but VU offered me a chance to succeed. I’m testament to VU’s philosophy that Year 12 scores do not define your talent – when a student finds their niche and interest they can excel."

Rhian’s journey to studying biomedicine

Flexible pathways, hands-on learning and industry-leading facilities helped open the right doors for Rhian, ensuring he had what he needed to develop his interests and skill-set.  

After coming out of high school with a low ATAR, Rhian didn’t let himself get discouraged. He found a way to chase his dream career in biology at VU, jumping straight in and never looking back.  

“I had a teacher who really encouraged me with biology and I fell in love with it. The staff are passionate [at VU] and some of them are at the top of their game.” 

Entering his research phase 

“After completing my bachelor's degree and honours in biomedical science, I received an Australian Postgraduate Award to begin my PhD research on stem cell therapies for inflammatory bowel disease.  

Receiving the award meant Rhian could choose to attend any university he wanted in Melbourne – but he decided to stay at VU.  

“I knew I had my best chance to succeed due to the dedication and expertise of the teaching staff. They are highly regarded academics with an international reputation whose passion is contagious. VU facilities are also state-of-the-art on a global scale. The Western Centre for Health Research and Education has enabled me to conduct competitive research at the top of my field.” 

Rhian’s rapid rise in the biomedicine research world

While at VU, Rhian eventually found his niche in stem-cell research for treatments for Hirschsprung's disease, a colon condition affecting infants. In 2019, a big offer came from Harvard Medical School. He had only just turned 26. 

“I accepted an offer to join Harvard University to continue my research career at Massachusetts General Hospital under renowned Professor Allan M. Goldstein, chief paediatric surgeon. I’ll be contributing to cutting-edge research on stem cell therapies for Hirschsprung's disease.” 

Rhian is now a postdoctoral fellow at The Goldstein Laboratory, continuing to build upon his impressive career in academic research focused on the latest challenges in biomedicine.  

Shining new light into biomedicine research 

Today, Rhian’s research explores everything from stem cell therapy to neuroinflammation. He is particularly focused on the role of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in regulating the severity of intestinal inflammation as well as identifying novel sources of adult neural stem cells.  

Rhian has interested in continuing to investigate enteric neuroimmune interactions and postnatal stem cell biology, including exploring potential applications for intestinal disorders. 

What inspires Rhian

“During my time at VU, I attended a speech by Julia Gillard. In this speech she stated that education is the most empowering tool we can wield. Inspired by this, I was driven to lead by example. My three daughters were born during my studies and I wanted to become as educated as possible to show them and others that they can live their dreams as I am now." 

Rhian was also supported by his high school sweetheart, now wife, Jordan Stavely. She also graduated high school disappointed by her ATAR results. Like Rhian, she turned that around, eventually studying a Master of Education, moving to the States with Rhian to become a teacher when the Harvard offer came through. 

Rhian’s journey shows that passion and hard work is what matter most when chasing your dream career.  

Chase your dream career in biomedicine

Whether you want to take on a PhD like Rhian as well or jump into trades as a woman, there’s pathways for everyone at VU, with state-of-the-art facilities, flexible learning options and career-focused teaching across every study discipline.

Explore our health and biomedicine courses 

Why study a Bachelor of Biomedicine at VU?

Nurture your interest in medicine and the human body by studying a Bachelor of Biomedicine at VU. You’ll learn about health and disease at the molecular level, discovering your role in driving advancements in healthcare. Start shaping your future career in research, biotechnology, biochemistry, nutrition or pharmacology. Get hands-on research experience in our cutting-edge facilities where you learn how to apply your knowledge and develop valuable skills.   

What is the Western Centre for Health Research & Education?

The Western Centre for Health Research and Education (Western CHRE) is an innovative teaching, training and research precinct in Western Melbourne. A three-way partnership between Western Health, VU and the University of Melbourne, the Centre aims to deliver high-calibre research and support students and staff from the College of Sport, Health & Engineering. 

Western CHRE’s state-of-the art facilities include health simulation labs, metabolic testing, bone and muscle imaging, and much more. Researchers, like Rhian, also have access to a certified Physical Containment Level 2 (PC2) lab for genetic modification work, allowing micro-organisms to be safely studied.