Dr Maria Di Biase awarded the Al  & Val Rosenstrauss Fellowship

Maria said the Fellowship has been a labour of love.

I had this deep curiosity—to answer biological questions that went beyond the tools I was used to using, so I shifted gears completely into stem cell biology—an entirely different field to neuroimaging from my PhD and first postdoc. It was challenging, but also deeply rewarding.

Over the past five years, during her first fellowship Maria says she has built the relationships, resources, and skills needed to pursue her research vision.

The Fellowship aims to tackle one of the most pressing challenges in biological psychiatry: the profound heterogeneity of schizophrenia.

We will use brain organoids—lab-grown human brain tissue derived from stem cells—to study schizophrenia. By combining these cellular models with neuroimaging, genetic, and clinical data from individuals recently diagnosed with schizophrenia.

From a personal perspective, to Maria, the Fellowship means empowerment that others believe in her approach and the way she is addressing research problems.

“It’s a reinvigoration after years of working towards my scientific goals… meaningful because the path I chose wasn’t linear…” she says.

“The Fellowship is integral to my research which will improve our biological grasp on schizophrenia—an elusive, complex and often devastating illness. This research could unlock pathways to more effective treatments, which those affected, their families, and clinicians are clamouring for.”

For those seeking a similar path, Maria says don’t build barriers or limitations on yourself.

“We do this based on what we think we know or what we’ve previously done. Fellowships are a chance to redefine what’s possible for yourself—don’t be afraid to pivot, learn, and grow in unexpected ways.”

Maria highlights intersectionality in science as opportunities that should be leveraged.

“For me, as a woman, as a new parent, parenthood is enriching my science, bringing an exciting and fresh perspective to the way I approach my work. Diverse experiences are assets that add richness and depth to the scientific community.”

Prof Matt Watt, Head, Department of Anatomy & Physiology, was quick to congratulate Maria:

Maria’s work in unique brain models derived from stem cells, together with neuroimaging, genetic, and clinical data will provide unprecedented insights into understanding the complex neurobiology and developmental causes of schizophrenia.

Prof Alice Pebay AM, Joint Head of the Stem Cell Disease Modelling Laboratory, says she is delighted to see Maria awarded the Fellowship.

The Al & Val Rosenstrauss Fellowship is a prestigious award that supports excellent and impactful early/mid-career researchers. This is testament to Maria’s talent, dedication, and vision. I am looking forward to seeing her continue to grow and thrive in her research journey.