Two PhD students in translational metabolism research

Published: 2023-03-08

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a long-term difference in society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has over 54,000 students, more than 7,500 employees and a turnover of around SEK 8 billion.

The Department of Medical Sciences is a large university department with about 250 employees and over 600 additional coworkers connected mainly via the Uppsala University Hospital. The Department of Medical Sciences has a broad research profile with strong research groups in a number of different areas. The research carried out at the department is performed in close connection with the clinical activities at the Uppsala University Hospital, which includes both basic studies on the causes of a variety of diseases and the development and evaluation of improved diagnostics and new treatment methods. More information about the Department of Medical Sciences can be found at www.medsci.uu.se .

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Duties/Project description
The Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism unit conducts clinical and experimental research projects focusing on type 2 diabetes and obesity. We have well established multidisciplinary collaborations both locally (e.g. Uppsala Diabetes Centre) and nationally/internationally (e.g. within an EU Horizon program).

Type 2 diabetes is a growing public health issue globally. The disease is characterised by progressing beta-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance. Obesity has long been recognised as an important factor driving insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. In addition to its role in energy storage, adipose tissue is an endocrine organ that secretes several factors that communicate with other organs, importantly including the brain. The overall purpose of this project is to identify novel mechanisms in the interplay between the brain and peripheral tissues, particularly adipose tissue, as well as crosstalk between other organs which can contribute to development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. In this context, we will use several different approaches:

Experimental studies of adipose tissue metabolism and other functions. Gene-editing using CRISPR-Cas9 for functional characterization of candidate genes in different cell models. Imaging techniques for investigations of cells and tissues in vitro as well as of the brain and other organs in humans in vivo.

We will perform functional assessments of tissue samples, such as alterations in innervation, nerve signalling, cell differentiation, glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin signalling and expression of genes relevant for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Clinical investigations of patients and healthy subjects are also performed. The studies will focus on the communication between the brain and peripheral tissues, e.g. via neuroendocrine pathways. The work aims to discover novel biomarkers and disease mechanisms related to obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Requirements
To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

- hold a Master’s (second-cycle) degree in Biomedicine, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical or Medical Science, or

- have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or

- have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.

The candidate should be highly motivated to perform translational research and show a great interest in metabolic/endocrine diseases. Preferably, candidates should have documented experience of translational research in metabolism or in neuroscience. Knowledge of in vitro and/or in vivo imaging techniques. Personal suitability is of importance, including skills in collaboration, communication, planning and organisation as well as accountability and accuracy. Excellent language skills in spoken and written English are required.

Additional qualifications
Experience in experimental metabolic research is desirable.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines Uppsala University's rules and guidelines .

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 2023-08-01 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position please contact: Jan Eriksson, [email protected] eller Maria Pereira, [email protected]

Please submit your application by April 12th 2023, UFV-PA 2023/909.

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Submit your application through Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Placement: Department of Medical Sciences

Type of employment: Full time , Temporary position

Pay: Fast lön

Number of positions: 2

Working hours: 100

Town: Uppsala

County: Uppsala län

Country: Sweden

Union representative: Seko Universitetsklubben [email protected]
ST/TCO [email protected]
Saco-rådet [email protected]

Number of reference: UFV-PA 2023/909

Last application date: 2023-04-12

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