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 5 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. giving the fellows lot of opportunities to make new connections both within Karolinska Institutet and internationally within the field of diabetes and metabolism.
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 fall 2026, though some flexibility with the start date might be possible.
Short running title of project: Mitochondrial quality control in type 2 diabetes
Research Project: Role of optineurin in mitochondrial quality control and metabolic flexibility in type 2 diabetes
A hallmark feature of type 2 diabetes is reduced skeletal muscle mitochondrial content. Exercise improves mitochondrial volume and quality, however emerging evidence from our laboratory suggests that this may be compromised in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this project is to define the molecular mechanisms underlying defective mitophagy in type 2 diabetes. By using exercise as a physiological perturbation, this work will establish how mitochondrial quality control is regulated in human skeletal muscle, and how this regulation is altered in type 2 diabetes. Specifically, this project will investigate whether the mitophagy receptor optineurin contributes to exercise-stimulated mitochondrial quality control and metabolic flexibility in skeletal muscle. Furthermore, we will investigate how distinct optineurin phosphorylation signatures, that emerge after exercise in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes, regulate optineurin function and therefore mitophagy. These studies will define how optineurin regulates skeletal muscle mitophagy and reveal a mechanism underlying impaired mitochondrial quality control in type 2 diabetes, identifying a potential therapeutic target to restore metabolic flexibility.
Key responsibilities of the selected applicant:
- Plan, manage and conduct an agreed academic research project and associated activities.
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Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate.
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Develop research questions, analyse detailed and complex quantitative data from a variety of sources, and contribute original ideas for new research projects.
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Coordinate multiple aspects of work to deliver novel research data in accordance with established timelines set between you and the Principal Investigator.
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Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols to support research.
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Regularly write research articles at an international level for peer-reviewed journals, book chapters, and reviews.
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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.
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Informally present your research to the group at established meetings.
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Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.
Essential
- A PhD in a medical/biological subject.
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Strong background in skeletal muscle biology, mitochondrial dynamics, or exercise physiology.
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Documented experience with cell biology and/or animal physiology approaches.
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Strong analytical skills and experience in statistical analysis and data interpretation.
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The ability to manage your own academic research and associated activities.
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A strong CV, having published in high impact journals and presented at international meetings.
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Ability to contribute ideas for new research projects and research income generation.
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Ability to work with meticulous attention to detail.
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An enthusiastic interest in diabetes research.
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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.
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Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
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A conscientious and enthusiastic working approach.
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Excellent planning, organizational and problem-solving skills.
Desirable
- Documented programming experience in R and/or Python
Each Fellowship is for two years. To be eligible for employment as a post-doctor 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.
