Scientist Turns to Urine Test for Lupus Nephritis Diagnosis
Sara Berent, a PhD student at WEHI, is developing a new diagnostic test for lupus nephritis. The approach uses urine samples to measure immune signatures via the O-Link proteomics platform.
From the Lab to the Community
Berent was awarded the People's Choice award in the InnoVision coaching program, a six-month initiative that helps early-stage entrepreneurs at WEHI translate their research projects into enterprises.
Before moving to Australia, she worked in a hospital in Vienna, where she contributed to diagnosing a patient with inflammatory skin lesions caused by a bacterial biofilm.
A Year Off That Built Skills
When a broken leg forced her to take a year off before her PhD, Berent used the time to work at a startup, gaining crucial commercialization skills.
Collaboration and Curiosity
She chairs Citizens of Science 2025, a community science education program. For Berent, collaboration is central to research, and her personal motivation is driven by curiosity.
"Collaboration is central to research."
Beyond the Bench
Outside the lab, Berent enjoys hiking in Australian national parks.