Oliver Squires is keen to make a difference, both in the field of health research and alleviation of world problems such as poverty and climate change.
The dual desires have taken Mr Squires to the UQ Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology to complete a PhD and the One Young World global forum in Zurich, Switzerland.
He was the convening Australian ambassador at the forum on September 1-4, after being the selected for the inaugural forum last year.
The forum allowed Mr Squires to hear from world leaders and activists such as Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Desmond Tutu, musician Bob Geldof, Norwegian Crown Prince Haakon and soccer star Clarence Seedorf.
He was part of debate about topics including global warming, poverty, human rights, freedom of speech, ethical business practices, world peace and healthcare.
“I come from a scientific background,” the 27-year-old from Narangba said. “If you think about it, innovation can address all of these areas.
“A lot of the people at the forum were bankers and business people. There were not a lot of scientists. I could tell these people what is going on in areas such as solar cell research. I could talk to them about the new technologies of tomorrow.”
Since returning from the forum, Mr Squires has joined the Australian Youth Climate Coalition, which lobbies government for action on climate change.
He said the skills he learned during his UQ PhD have proven to be valuable in the new roles in dealing with business and government.
“You have to research different issues and answer questions that arise from that. You have to know your message, find solutions, plan and have good time management skills.”
Mr Squire’s UQ PhD research involves smart polymeric contrast agents for MRI scans, which aims to improve detection of cancerous tumours.
“That has a direct relationship with global health and cancer research. I want to make a difference. I’d like to be involved in science education in Australia and research.
“I am motivated to make a difference by what I’ve heard at the forum. “
As well as plans to attend the next forum in Pittsburgh in the US, Mr Squires hopes to use his position as convening Australian ambassador to encourage small Asia Pacific nations to be represented in 2012.
The trip to Zurich was made possible with sponsorship from UQ Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and AIBN Group Leader Professor Max Lu.
Media: Erik de Wit (047 281 466, 3346 3962)
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