Vignette 46: Accessible insulin for all Australians

Professor Thorburn Brailsford Robertson (1884–1930) was a significant figure in Australian science whose life had a huge impact by changing the country’s medical landscape through insulin production and accessibility. 

Robertson completed his studies at the University and later earned his PhD from the University of California in 1907, followed by his Doctor of Science from the University of Adelaide in 1908. Robertson became the Chair of Physiology at the University in 1919.

Robertson became a key figure in making insulin accessible to diabetics in Australia in the early 1920s, collaborating with Professor John Macleod from the University of Toronto. Robertson’s team discovered new ways to optimise the insulin production process, producing over 40,000 doses. This significantly reduced insulin costs and made the medication more affordable for Australians. 

A pioneer in the physical chemistry of proteins, Robertson’s research into animal growth also made substantial contributions to agricultural science. In 1927, he was appointed by the Commonwealth Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to lead a division of animal nutrition.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Nurturing excellence. p.68