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Institution
Ludwigs-Maximilians-Universtitaet Muenchen
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Institution(s)
Research: Mount Sinai School Of Medicine, Dept. Of Neurology
Mentors: W.G. Tatton, MD, PhD, FRCPC, C.W. Olanow MD, FRCPC
Apoptosis in neurodegenerative diseases: A study of the mitochondrial membrane potential and key survival/death proteins. Recent evidence indicates that the process of apoptosis rather than necrosis primarily contributes to nerve cell death of the human neurodegenerative diseases. A number of genes and their protein products have been uncovered, which can influence the progression of apoptosis and serve as markers of the process. Furthermore, several cytoplasmic proteins undergo translocation and may lead to loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, possibly a critical mediator of apoptosis. By establishing primary cultures of cerebellar granule neurons in this laboratory I contributed a novel model for the studies of apoptotic cell death mechanisms. My work primarily includes cell culturing techniques as well as immunocytochemistry, protein chemistry and confocal laser imaging.
Up one minute, down the next. I can hardly wait for the Prozac to kick in in the mornings. Rubbish, it's great. New York is very energizing, and the only limitation to endless pleasure is bankruptcy or sleep deprivation; no reason to complain. Laboratories are rich, you won't have to wash Eppendorf pipet tips any more. Teaching in medical schools is excellent because professors appreciate the attention they experienced during their education.
Despite the great help of the BMEP many problems occurred in the visa process prior to the departure. I received my J-1 visa one day prior to my actual flight date. So be advised to send your request early enough, and keep nagging if your host institution does not respond. If you are dependent on your individual financial support and private savings, you might encounter severe economical difficulties, at least staying in New York. Rents start at $600. Ask your mentor at the host institution for support.
Make sure there is a well-considered project waiting for you, preferably within a work-group. If you don't know where you want to go, I can highly recommend my place. If you are interested in Neurology - in particular movement disorders and neurodegeneration - this is one of the leading groups in the field. Rotations in literally every field are available. The hospital and the labs are located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan and a short subway ride brings you downtown throughout the whole night. Housing is provided.