Dr. Chloe Lim never expected her pastor’s request for a balloon artist would revolutionize how she teaches science. But when the biomedical scientist picked up those colorful balloon tubes, she discovered something magical—twisted balloons could explain the twisted structure of DNA.
“Using twisted balloon tubes to teach children about DNA came naturally to me,” Chloe reflects. What started as a church fair favor became her signature teaching method, bridging the gap between complex genetics and young curiosity.
From Malaysia to New Zealand to Australia, Chloe’s journey through academia wasn’t without challenges. After completing her Ph.D. in Biomedical Science, she secured a position as Senior Scientific Evaluator at the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care—a validation of years of dedication.
But motherhood changed everything. When overlooked for roles after maternity leave, Chloe pivoted to public service and discovered her true calling: making science accessible to everyone. Her book “What Makes You Unique” creatively introduces genetics to young readers, while her balloon-twisting workshops bring science to life at community events.
As an advisor to Gotara, a global career platform for women in STEM, and contributor to “Undefeated”—an anthology celebrating migrant women’s journeys—Chloe exemplifies resilience. “I had no role model,” she admits, “but that’s exactly why I’m determined to be one for others.”
Today, this science storyteller, entrepreneur, and author continues to twist both balloons and minds, proving that the most complex concepts can be understood when presented with creativity and passion.