POSITION IN BASIC DIABETES RESEARCH

We utilize cell biological, genomic, and systems biology approaches to identify and characterize the mechanisms leading to immune-mediated death of pancreatic beta cells in type 1 diabetes mellitus. We have unveiled a large part of beta cell responses (at mRNA and protein levels) to pro-inflammatory cytokines and have identified key transcription factors involved in beta cell apoptosis (Eizirik DL et al. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2009). We are now delineating the molecular pathways involved in beta cell dysfunction and death, focusing on endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondria death pathways (Cardozo et al. Diabetes 2005, Eizirik DL et al Endocr Rev 2008, Gurzov E et al. Cell Death Diff 2009).

We are seeking a talented, innovative and enthusiastic researcher with a PhD awarded within the last 3 years. Broad knowledge and adequate laboratory experience in cellular, molecular biology and animal studies, good command of spoken and written English and excellent communication and team skills are required. Knowledge on methods of intracellular Ca2+ measurements is a plus.

Our laboratory (Laboratory of Experimental Medicine) is located at the Faculty of Medicine at the Université Libre de Bruxelles – Brussels – Belgium. It has a highly dynamic research environment with teams dealing with the pathogenesis of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. We are one of the few laboratories in the world able to FACS purify and keep in culture rat beta cells which allow us to perform detailed mechanistic studies on pure beta cell preparations.

Applications, including CV, list of publications, names of two references and statement of future interests should be sent to akupperc@ulb.ac.be.
Funding is available for an initial period of 18 months, starting middle 2010.