Professor Martin de Bock is a Paediatric Endocrinologist and Professor in the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Otago, Christchurch, within the Faculty of Medicine. He holds an MBChB, FRACP, and PhD, which he obtained in Auckland, New Zealand, where he also trained in paediatric endocrinology. Following his training, he spent several years in Perth, Western Australia, developing his primary research focus on diabetes technologies, particularly automated insulin delivery systems to improve outcomes for people with diabetes. He now practices clinically at Christchurch Hospital and conducts research through the University of Otago, contributing to advancements in paediatric diabetes management.
His research specializations centre on type 1 diabetes in children and young people, with a strong emphasis on emerging technologies such as open-source automated insulin delivery systems. Professor de Bock has authored over 100 international peer-reviewed publications, including high-impact papers in the New England Journal of Medicine, such as 'Open-Source Automated Insulin Delivery in Type 1 Diabetes' (2022) and contributions to NEJM Evidence on automated insulin delivery for young people (2024). He has played a key role in clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of hybrid closed-loop systems and DIY insulin pumps, enhancing glycemic control and quality of life for patients. In recognition of his transformative work, he shared the Health Research Council of New Zealand Beaven Medal with Professor Ben Wheeler and their team for pioneering interventions in type 1 diabetes. Internationally, he contributes to consensus statements and diabetes management guidelines, and serves on the diabetes committee of the Australia New Zealand Paediatric Endocrine Society. His efforts also include funded projects targeting equitable access to diabetes technologies for Māori and Pasifika youth.