Cells exchange information via secretion of molecules such as metabolites, proteins and miRNAs. Mechanisms of intercellular communication become disrupted during metabolic diseases, leading to changes in the circulating levels of these molecules. The main purpose of this project is to identify secreted molecules that exert relevant biological functions in the context of metabolic diseases. For that we will use plasma/serum samples of mice and humans undergoing interventions that promote weight loss and we will profile circulating molecules using omics approaches to identify the ones that associate with a healthy metabolic status. Once we identify these molecules, we will test them in a series of cell and animal models to characterize their potential to protect against metabolic diseases.
Candidates must have completed their PhD; have experience in mass spec-based metabolomics and/or lipidomics, preferentially with some experience in data analysis and/or bioinformatics; have extensive knowledge of biochemical and molecular biology techniques (emphasis on analytical biochemistry) and some experience with cell culture and/or mouse models. We also expect candidates to work in a multidisciplinary environment and be collaborative. The candidate must be available to spend time in a laboratory abroad.
The project will be conducted under the supervision of Marcelo A. Mori, PhD and co-supervision of Pedro M. Vieira, PhD and Daniel Martins-de-Souza, PhD. The fellowship will be funded by FAPESP under the OCRC budget and has an initial timetable of 24 months, scheduled to begin in May-June 2020. For more information about FAPESP’s postdoctoral fellowship program, please see
http://www.fapesp.br/en/postdoc.
Applicants are requested to send the following documents:
a) Statement of interest, describing the reasons for your interest in this position and the main lab techniques that you are skilled in;
b) Two recommendation letters;
c) Short summary of your PhD thesis;
d) Short CV.
