Our Research Assistants are an integral part of all the research we do! Today we are shining a spotlight on Will Sciberras. He is currently studying his Master of Biomedical Science with a specialisation in Neuroscience at the University of WA.
Tell us a little bit about you and why you're here?
I first came to Perth when I was 12 years old to attend boarding school at Wesley College. My family was living in Kalgoorlie throughout my high school years, so Perth quickly became my home away from home and I’ve been here ever since! I have always been interested in human biology and the amazing complexity of our anatomy, and how treatments are developed to combat the conditions we face. This interest led me to completing my Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences at Notre Dame in Fremantle, and has now led to me doing a Master’s with a specialisation in neuroscience. I find all areas of health and research fascinating and am very fortunate to be part of an organisation and team which focuses on targeting this research to the Kids around Australia and their families.
Why did you get into T1D research?
What initially interested me in diabetes research was the vast number of complications which can arise from the condition. However, after working in this area I’ve become increasingly interested in the management of T1D. Particularly with advancements in technology that can mitigate the stress that people with T1D and their families experience.
What are your current research projects you are working on?
I’m currently assisting with a few projects, the main one being a study where we are looking at the efficacy of a new sensor. I’m also helping with the ‘Pathway to Prevention’ project where we are regularly screening people who have relatives with T1D for specific antibodies which indicate early-stage diabetes, so they can be treated at the as early as possible.
What T1D research breakthroughs would you like to see in the next 10 years?
I think the obvious big break through is finding a cure for diabetes (wouldn’t that be great!). I would also like to see progression in the psychological area of diabetes, whether that be through medication, technology or social projects. It would be great to get to a point where kids diagnosed with T1D can seamlessly continue with their everyday sports/activities without the stress of having to manage their diabetes or any stigmas attached to having T1D. I think our team is doing amazing work in this area by researching T1D with a holistic perspective to improve the lives of kids with T1D and families. For example, the launch of our sports resources this year has focused on increasing awareness of T1D within sporting communities, leading to increased awareness and support for kids participating in sport.
What do you like to do outside of your work?
I've always been fascinated by space and astronomy, so whenever the skies are clear, I love to set up my telescope and see what I can look at! Currently, I live in Freo with my wonderful girlfriend, and we enjoy morning swims and coffees at South beach. In my free time, I stay active with sports, currently playing a bit of tennis, doing some boxing classes, and swimming to prepare for the Rotto swim. I'm also passionate about snowboarding and scuba diving, always planning (or dreaming about) my next winter or diving trip.