PhD student position in Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Medical Sciences is a large clinical institution with more than 250 employees and over 300 additional coworkers connected 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 illnesses 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

Duties/Project description: The Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism unit conducts clinical and experimental research projects focusing on type 2 diabetes and obesity. Type 2 diabetes is a growing public health issue characterised by continuous β cell dysfunction together with insulin resistance. Obesity, i.e. increased adipose tissue mass, has long been recognised as a critical force in driving insulin resistance and the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. We study the crosstalk between different organs, mainly the brain, adipose tissue, pancreas and the gut, in obesity and type 2 diabetes. The main focus for this part of our research program is to identify new mechanisms in how the brain regulates energy and glucose balance, and alterations that can lead to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. We are primarily interested in the communication between the brain and other organs through e.g. neuroendocrine systems and the autonomous nervous system, in the development of type 2 diabetes. In this context, we will use several research approaches:

• Neuroimaging using PET, functional and morphological magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cerebral blood flow
• Psychometric tests for measuring psychosocial stress, depression/anxiety, cognitive functions
• The activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic autonomic nervous system
• Metabolic and hormonal regulation: clamp techniques and challenge tests (i.e. oral glucose tolerance test, arginine challenge)

In addition, we also perform functional analysis of the brain’s signaling to its target tissues such as adipose tissue and muscle in the context of changes in cell differentiated, glucose- and lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity and the expression of genes regulated by neuroendocrine signaling, that are important in type 2-diabetes and obesity. These studies are expected to identify new biomarkers and molecular mechanisms that could lead to development of novel drug treatments.

Qualifications: Completed Master’s degree or equivalent in the area of biomedicine, biochemistry, medical sciences or related field. The candidate should have experience in translational research, preferably using similar methods described above, as well as studies of the crosstalk between brain and other organs.  Specific emphasis is placed on personal qualities such as the ability to communicate, planning, organisational skills, accountability and accuracy. Excellent spoken and written English language skills is required.

Additional qualifications: Experience in metabolic and endocrine studies in vivo and in vitro.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/?languageId=1

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.
 
Starting date: 01-08-2021 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact: Jan Eriksson, jan.eriksson@medsci.uu.se eller Maria Pereira, maria.pereira@medsci.uu.se

Please submit your application by 6 May 201X, UFV-PA 2021/1439.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.