Postdoctoral Researcher/The Strategic Research Programme for Diabetes (2) Local and systemic impact of adipose tissue on vascular function in cardiometabolic disease

Karolinska Institutet, Department of Medicine Solna

Overview of the Position

The Strategic Research Programme in Diabetes (SRP Diabetes) at Karolinska Institutet is funding a prestigious fellowship programme for postdoctoral research fellows. The Programme is focused on research in diabetes and its comorbidities. With this postdoctoral programme SRP Diabetes aims to support the next generation of exceptional young scientists within the diabetes area, including both experimental and clinical research. As part of this programme, we are looking to recruit 6 outstanding postdoctoral research fellows. Full details on each project and contact information to the PIs can be found at: http://ki.se/en/srp-diabetes/postdoctoral-fellowships

Based at Karolinska Institutet, fellows will undertake a cutting-edge research project in a competitive lab and be part of the SRP Diabetes dynamic research environment where several events will be held throughout the year such as high-profile lectures, symposia, internal retreat, etc. which the fellows will attend.

The fellowships are fully funded, and salary is provided for a 2-year period. It is our intention that the positions will start in the spring of 2025, though some flexibility with the start date might be possible.

Research Project

Local and systemic impact of adipose tissue on vascular function in cardiometabolic disease

People living with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease or stroke than those without diabetes, yet the precise mechanisms for this increased atherosclerosis risk remain poorly understood. This translational postdoc project aims to shed light on the links between diabetes, obesity and the associated heightened risk for atherosclerosis by exploring the differential effect of local adipose tissue surrounding larger vessels (perivascular fat) and the systemic impact of the subcutaneous adipose tissue, which represents around 80% of the human fat mass. The project will explore both known disease pathways such as Arginase activity and identify novel mediating factors affecting vascular function by collecting paired clinical fat biopsies and performing molecular and functional analyses. The results can potentially have large implications for our understanding of the interconnection between diabetes and cardiovascular risk, and help identify valuable therapeutic targets for future protective treatments for this extra vulnerable patient group.

Key responsibilities of the selected applicant

Plan, manage and conduct an agreed academic research project and associated activities.
Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate.
Develop research questions, analyse detailed and complex qualitative and/or quantitative data from a variety of sources, and contribute original ideas for new research projects.
Coordinate multiple aspects of work to deliver novel research data in accordance with established timelines set between you and the Principal Investigators.
Oversee collection of clinical biopsies and their downstream functional and molecular analysis by coordinating the contact between clinicians and the lab
Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols to support research.
Regularly write research articles at an international level for peer-reviewed journals, book chapters, and reviews.
Formally present your research and represent the research group at internal, national and international conferences and meetings, either with other members of the team or alone.
Informally present your research to the group at established meetings.
Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.

Selection Criteria

Essential

A PhD in a medical/biological subject (to be completed in 2024).
A clinical degree in medicine (MD) with or without clinical experience, or experience working in an translational research environment, is a plus but not an absolute requirement.
The ability to manage your own academic research and associated activities.
A strong CV, having published in high impact journals and presented at international meetings.
Ability to contribute ideas for new research projects and research income generation.
Ability to work with meticulous attention to detail.
An enthusiastic interest in diabetes research.
Evidence of excellent interpersonal skills and leadership, with the ability to communicate research ideas and results in a clear and logical way and the ability to confidently and effectively interact with colleagues and the broader research community.
Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
A conscientious and enthusiastic working approach.
Excellent planning, organizational and problem-solving skills.

Each Fellowship is for two years. To be eligible for employment as a postdoctor a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed to be equivalent to a doctoral degree is required. This eligibility requirement must be fulfilled at the latest at the time of the employment decision. It is considered as an advantage if you have completed your doctoral degree within the last three years, if there are special reasons, your degree may have been completed earlier.

Location: Solna

Application

If you consider that you meet the selection criteria, click on the Login and apply button on this page and follow the on-screen instructions to register as a user. You will then be required to provide information in a number of screens with your application details, relating to your skills and experience. When prompted, please provide details of three references. You will also be required to upload a CV and Personal Letter which explains how you meet the selection criteria for the position. The Personal Letter (maximum two pages) should explain your relevant experience which may have been gained in employment, education, or you may have taken time away from these activities as illness, military service, work for labour unions or student organisations, parental leave or similar circumstances. Your application will be judged in part on the basis of how you demonstrate that you meet the selection criteria outlined above and we are happy to consider evidence of transferable skills or experience which you may have gained outside the context of paid employment or education.

Please save all uploaded documents to show your name and the document type.

The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system.

The closing date for applications is midnight CEST on Saturday 31th August, 2024.

Working at Karolinska Institutet

For further information about working at Karolinska Institutet, rules for visa/residence permit, insurance and accommodation please see: https://staff.ki.se/international-staff