Researcher in molecular and physiological regulation of muscle glycogen degradation using novel preclinical models Full-time

Researcher Position in Sakamoto Group

We are seeking a highly motivated, dynamic researcher with expertise in in vivo analysis of exercise-related muscle glycogen utilization, biochemical analysis of enzymes involved in glycogen metabolism, and in vivo substrate metabolism kinetics using stable isotope tracers to join the Sakamoto group.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR) is an academic research center that pioneers groundbreaking research towards better cardiometabolic health. Through collaborative interdisciplinary research from single-cell genomics to whole-body systems, CBMR aims to transform the basic understanding of cardiometabolic health and accelerate its translation into prevention and treatment strategies. The center's uniquely multi- and interdisciplinary approach combines research in genetics, physiology, and pharmacology to better understand the complex interplay of the many factors that drive cardiometabolic disease.

CBMR was established in 2010 at the Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences and has been located in the Maersk Tower at PANUM since 2017. The around 260 employees create an international, highly collaborative research environment across disciplines.

The Sakamoto Group aims to elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying cellular energy sensing and restoration of metabolic balance. We study how post-translational modifications (e.g., reversible phosphorylation) and allosteric regulation of signaling proteins/metabolic enzymes control cellular energy balance and how dysfunctions of such molecular processes lead to cardiometabolic diseases.

This project aims to elucidate the molecular and physiological mechanisms controlling skeletal muscle glycogen degradation, through allosteric ligands, reversible phosphorylation, and muscle glycogen content. The project employs novel genetic models carrying point mutations that affect either allosteric ligand binding or phosphorylation-dependent regulation of muscle glycogen phosphorylase (rate-controlling enzyme in glycogen breakdown). In combination with these models, muscle-specific deletion of glycogen synthase (rate-controlling enzyme in glycogen synthesis) to genetically alter muscle glycogen content is employed. The multi-faceted approach integrates structure-guided mutagenesis, in vitro enzyme kinetics, and in vivo substrate utilization measurements using isotope tracers in diverse genetic preclinical models.

Your responsibilities will include carrying out all major biochemical and physiological analyses of the project: performing in vitro kinetics analysis of wild type and mutant enzymes, analyzing effect of muscle contractions in glucose partitioning by extensive in situ and ex vivo analysis in isolated muscles. Whole body metabolic phenotyping of various transgenic mouse models in response to different modalities of exercise, and in vivo substrate utilization and nutrient flux measurements using stable isotope infusions during and after exercise will be investigated as well. Additionally, tasks include coordination and management of several internal and external collaborators as well as supervision of students and other researchers.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the following competencies and qualifications:

• PhD in molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, cell signaling, physiology or similar.
• Minimum of four years of postdoc experience.
• Extensive experience with protein biochemistry (e.g., in vitro enzyme kinetics analysis), skeletal muscle physiology/metabolism and its related analysis (using ex vivo, in situ and in vivo systems).
• Comprehensive hands-on experience in conducting in vivo preclinical studies, including different exercise modalities and metabolic phenotyping (e.g., particularly in rodents) and interpreting the data (FELASA certified or similar)
• In-depth hands-on experience and knowledge related to employing stable isotope tracers to study in vivo substrate utilization in response to exercise. Knowledge of quantifying nutrient flux is a plus.
• Strong project and stakeholder (e.g. external collaborator) management skills.
• Experience and interest in teaching and supervision of students and other researchers at various career stages.
• Proven track record showing scientific productivity in peer reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences.
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and oral.

The place of employment is at Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Maersk Tower, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment.

The employment as Researcher is a full time and fixed-term position for 2 years. Starting date is January 1, 2027.

Salary, pension and terms of employment will be in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated.

Non-Danish and Danish applicants may be eligible for tax reductions, if they hold a PhD degree and have not lived in Denmark the last 10 years.

The position is covered by the “Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at the Universities” of June 28, 2013.