Via naturejobs.com. The aim of this project is to understand a novel signaling network controlling insulin secretion, fat accumulation and energy balance centered around Activins A and B, GDF-3 and their receptors ALK7 and ALK4. Recent results from our laboratory indicate that these molecules are part of paracrine signaling networks that control important functions in pancreatic islets, adipose tissue and hypothalamus through feedback inhibition and feed-forward regulation. These discoveries have opened up a new research area with important implications for the understanding of metabolic networks and the treatment of human metabolic syndromes, such as diabetes and obesity. The project encompasses in vitro and in vivo approaches, and involves the characterization of conditional genetic models in mutant mice and studies of novel TGF-beta signaling pathways in pancreatic beta-cells, adipocytes and hypothalamic neurons. Experience in metabolic research, molecular biology, intracellular signaling and mouse genetics will be important for consideration. Based within the Karolinska Institute, the laboratory is located amid other 10 high-profile groups of the Strategic Center on Developmental Biology for Regenerative Medicine, one of the most vibrant and productive research environments in Scandinavia. Funding is available for an initial period of 2 years, starting any time during the Spring of 2009. Applications, including i) CV, ii) list of publications and iii) statement of future interests, should be sent to Prof. Carlos Ibáñez at: [email protected]. Further details can be found at the link below. The deadline for applications is 15 February 2009.

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