Women In Science: Interview with Professor Sarah Robertson AO

To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2024, hear from Professor Sarah Robertson AO from the Reproductive Immunology group, about her journey as a researcher, what drives her ambition, and what unique challenges she has faced.

What are you aspiring to achieve in your area of research?   

"A healthy start to life, for all children and families."

What drives your motivation to be a researcher? 

"I’m excited to understand the biological processes of conception and early pregnancy. In particular I want to know how the female immune response is involved in allowing embryos to implant and develop - or in some cases not allowing pregnancy to progress – how does it make this judgement? And can we boost the immune system to reduce the incidence of infertility and guard against pregnancy disorders like preeclampsia, preterm labour, and stillbirth?"

"To be at the cutting edge of discovery and innovation (…) and to have the satisfaction of improving people’s lives at home and around the world – I can’t think of a better job.”Professor Sarah Robertson AO

What is the best thing about your job? ... and the hardest? 

"The best thing is getting new data and understanding what it means – it’s like a giant jigsaw puzzle trying to fit together all the pieces. The hard part is how long it takes – I wish we could make faster progress, but we have to be absolutely certain before we can publish a scientific paper or announce a new discovery, or else the puzzle pieces get muddled up" 

A moment, decision, discovery or achievement in your career that you are proud of, is.... 

"I was fortunate to work with colleagues in Denmark to develop a new IVF culture media containing cytokines (proteins that control growth and survival of cells) to help couples where standard IVF wasn't working, or pregnancies had repeatedly miscarried. When I met the first Australian family who were helped to have a healthy baby after years of trying, it was amazing – I am very grateful to have a career where I can do exciting science, AND help people in our community."

What support do you wish you had had along the way that wasn’t available to you? 

"Adelaide leads the country in reproduction science and I’ve had wonderful mentors and colleagues to work with over the years, as well as a great bunch of scientists and students in my team – so I can’t complain! I do wish we could secure better funding for the up-and-coming scientists who will take this work forward in the future – it can be hard to get established when funds are so scarce."  

What is your message to girls or young women contemplating a career in science? 

"Go for it! Get a science degree and see if research is for you. If you’re prepared to put in the effort, it’s a wonderful career and fantastic avenue to make a difference in the world. To be at the cutting edge of discovery and innovation, to be working collectively as part of an international effort, and to have the satisfaction of improving people’s lives at home and around the world – I can’t think of a better job."