Mrs Donnelly commenced undergraduate study for a Bachelor of Medical Science (Generic) online in 2012 and completed residential school in Wagga Wagga.

She and her husband and their three children moved from Inverell in 2018 so Mrs Donnelly could complete a Bachelor of Science (Honours).

Receiving the University Medal was described as "very special" by Mrs Donnelly.

"I am very honoured to receive the University Medal," she said.

"This award is recognition for my consistent application to my studies over the past eight years and moreover, my love of science and learning."

Mrs Donnelly's Honours work was in structural biology, specifically looking at two viruses that can be transmitted from animals to humans - the Hendra virus and Nipah virus.

She investigated how the viral matrix protein hijacks the cellular machinery of its host and potential inhibitors of this process.

Mrs Donnelly said the support she received from her supervisors Professor Jade Forwood and Dr Chris Scott was invaluable.

"I find viruses fascinating and I was keen to get involved in a project dealing with emerging viral diseases," she said.

"The University and science community have been incredibly supportive."

Charles Sturt Deputy Vice-Chancellor Ms Jenny Roberts said Mrs Donnelly is one of many students who have juggled home life and study to achieve their goal.

"Camilla's dedication to her study is what makes her a very worthy recipient of the University Medal," she said.

"On behalf of the University I want to congratulate Camilla, and her fellow graduates, on their achievements during the course of their time at Charles Sturt University."

Mrs Donnelly is currently working on laboratory projects, attending conferences, and spending time with her family.

She would like to work on research projects in Australia and overseas, and intends to continue studying next year for a PhD investigating other viruses.