Manjekah Dunn has always been fascinated by the human brain, and is hoping to one day make a career in neuroscience.
The Year 12 student is among 23 of Australia's brightest students in areas including mathematics, physics, and programming selected to take part in the UNESCO sanctioned International Science and Mathematical Olympiad next month.
She's also the only girl on the Australian team.
She says she's not really sure if it's scientific or social factors behind the under-representation of girls and women in the field of science.
"There's a lot of evidence to suggest that the male sex is better at analytical subjects like maths or science and girls are generally better at humanities subjects. But I think there is an underlying stereotype which may be causing that."
A recent formal assessment by the National Council of universities and institutions looked at what they're doing to combat the under-representation of women in the field of medical research.
The report showed 70 per cent of those surveyed lagged behind when it came to supporting women develop their careers in medical research.
Sanctioned by the United Nations science and education agency, UNESCO, the Olympiad will bring together 2,000 of the world's smartest students in Cape Town, South Africa in July this year.
