MetAGE Postdoctoral position: Lipid turnover upon aging (m/w/d)
* Duration of Contract: Temporary employment
* Temporary Employment: 2 years with option of extension
Your Responsibilities
* The fellow will be part of a team led by Key Researcher Dr. Renate Schreiber in the Division of Biochemistry at the Institute of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Graz, Austria. The successful fellow will work in a multidisciplinary team of basic and clinical scientists within the Cluster of Excellence “MetAGE”, focused on understanding aging-associated metabolic disorders with a focus on adipose tissue metabolism.
* Establishment of flux analysis using stable isotopes, microsurgery techniques, and GC/MS analyses.
* Independent planning, implementation, and evaluation of scientific experiments.
* Active participation in internal and external meetings, as well as national and international conferences.
* Publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
* Co-supervision and mentoring of students at Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD levels.
Your Profile
* Completed doctoral degree/PhD in life sciences or natural sciences.
* Solid expertise in multidisciplinary techniques including (analytical) biochemistry, molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, and working with mouse models (including genetics, physiology, and surgical techniques).
* Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously, work independently, and collaborate effectively within a team.
* High commitment, personal responsibility, and self-motivation for scientific work.
* Strong communication and social skills.
* Fluent in written and spoken English.
Application Documents
* Academic CV including an abstract of your PhD thesis.
* Proof of degree completion as specified in the job posting.
* Two recommendation letters sent directly by referees to metAGE@uni-graz.at by the deadline.
Hearing date: 23rd June 2025 in Graz.
Background: Aging is linked to the development of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cachexia. These conditions involve dysfunctional adipose tissue and lipid overflow into non-adipose tissues, causing lipotoxicity. Key processes like lipolysis, mediated by enzymes such as adipose triglyceride lipase and hormone-sensitive lipase, are not fully understood in the context of aging.
Hypothesis and Objectives: We hypothesize that fasting interventions like time-restricted feeding may prevent age-related decline in lipid handling in adipocytes in mice and humans. We plan to assess lipid turnover using stable isotope tracer technology.
Methodology: Studies will be conducted in mice during fasting and refeeding cycles, using flux analyses with stable isotopes to quantify lipid metabolism. Whole-body phenotyping and functional assessments of adipocyte lipolysis will be performed in tissues, biopsies, and isolated adipocytes.
References:
1. Zechner, R., Madeo, F., & Kratky, D. (2017). Cytosolic lipolysis and lipophagy: Two sides of the same coin. Nat. Rev. Mol. Cell Biol.
2. Schreiber, R., Xie, H., & Schweiger, M. (2019). Of mice and men: The physiological role of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL). Biochim. Biophys. Acta - Mol. Cell Biol. Lipids.
3. Klein, S., et al. (1986). Palmitate and glycerol kinetics during brief starvation in normal weight young adult and elderly subjects. J. Clin. Invest.
4. Gao, H., et al. (2020). Age-Induced Reduction in Human Lipolysis: A Potential Role for Adipocyte Noradrenaline Degradation. Cell Metab.
5. Kim, I.-Y., et al. (2020). Quantifications of Lipid Kinetics In Vivo Using Stable Isotope Tracer Methodology. J. Lipid Atheroscler.
We offer an annual gross salary of €69,060.59 for a full-time position.
We Offer
* Meaningful work contributing to future challenges.
* Comprehensive continuing education programs.
* Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.
* Standard benefits, including healthcare access and sustainability initiatives.
* A diverse and inclusive working environment.
* Flexible working arrangements supporting work-life balance.
About us
The University of Graz employs 4700 staff dedicated to societal challenges and innovation. Join us in shaping the future.
Contact
We encourage qualified women and persons with disabilities to apply. Applications must be submitted via our web-based applicant portal to comply with data protection regulations.
Join us in working for tomorrow!
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