Each year The Royal Society, the world’s oldest national scientific institution, elects a new set of Fellows (both UK-based and ‘Foreign Members’). This year, among 62 distinguished researchers from across the scientific disciplines, four developmental biology and stem cell researchers were named, and one name in particular delighted the Development office…

James Briscoe, who joined Development as Editor-in-Chief last year and who has also served as Director on the board of The Company of Biologists, is now James Briscoe FRS! James’ lab at The Crick in London works on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of embryonic development with a particular focus on the developing spinal cord. You can hear more about his life in science in Katherine Brown’s Development interview, and his plans for Development in his inaugural editorial. Congratulations James!

The 2019 list also includes:

• Richard Harland (UC Berkeley), whose lab works on early vertebrate development using Xenopus
• Elaine Fuchs (Rockefeller, NY), whose lab works on adult skin stem cells
• Hans Clevers (Hubrecht Institute, NL), whose lab works on adult stem cell-based organoids

Congratulations to all three, and the rest of the new FRS family.

(1 votes)

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Polyploidy is a conserved and frequently occurring phenomenon whose impact on organismal health and disease is poorly understood.  This first symposium focused on Polyploidy was organized by Don Fox (Duke University), Vicki Losick (MDI Biological Laboratory), and Adrienne Roeder (Cornell University), and took place at the MDI Biological Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine on October 13-14, 2018.  The meeting successfully appealed to a wide-range of scientists at different stages of their career from across US and abroad.

The sessions covered research using diverse model systems, including the fruit fly, worm, plant, fungi, zebrafish, and mammalian models.  The meeting topics included the role of polyploidy in organ development, tissue repair and regeneration, cell cycle and chromosome segregation fidelity, size control, and infection and disease.   The talks and posters revealed remarkable commonalities across these systems and several themes emerged.   First, although polyploidy comes in many forms, from whole genome duplication throughout the organism to increased DNA content in specialized mononucleate cells, multinucleate cells, or syncytia, it is almost universally associated with an increase in cell or organismal size.  Adding to the complexity, polyploid cells often alter genome copy number either through amplification or underreplication. The advancement of high resolution imaging and single cell sequencing are now providing mechanistic insight into how polyploid cells increase size and alter their genome.

A second theme is that polyploidization often occurs in response to wounding and tends to increase with age but depending on the organ/tissue can be either beneficial or detrimental to regenerative potential.  A third theme is that mechanical signals, likely from the extracellular environment can induce polyploid cell growth, regulating organ development and speed of wound healing.  In addition, many talks revealed that evolutionarily conserved cell cycle regulators are instrumental in producing polyploid cells and regulating their genome integrity. Polyploidy can prevent cell cycle re-entry, which can be advantageous in blocking tumorigenesis or cell death. While these are in some sense “scheduled” polyploidization events that the organism itself induces, “unscheduled” cellular polyploidy events often lead to disease. In the keynote talk, David Pellman (HHMI/Dana Farber) discussed his model that defects in the nuclear envelope of micronuclei explain how an “unscheduled” genome duplication leads to chromothripsis (a chromosome that appears shattered and randomly stitched back together), which sequencing has shown is very common in human cancers. Infections by parasitic nematodes can trigger the formation of polyploid cells in plant roots and ploidy of infectious yeast strains vary in clinical isolates. One of the conclusions the meeting, which was particularly emphasized by Jeff Doyle (Cornell University), was just how many important open questions remain about polyploidy, indicating there is plenty of exciting research to be done on this emerging field. The next Polyploidy symposium is set for 2020 or 2021.

(5 votes)

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A fundamental question in biology is how cells communicate to fashion and repair complex biological structures and tissues.  It is well established that cells communicate through biochemical cues.  However, compelling evidence suggests that cells and tissues of all types use ion fluxes to communicate electrically as well.  In addition, it is now clear that this method of communication is essential to proper development, regeneration, cancer suppression, and tissue homeostasis.  The field of developmental bioelectricity focuses on the regulation of cell-, tissue-, and organ-level patterning and function, as the result of endogenous electrically-mediated signaling events.  While endogenous ionic phenomena and the effects of applied fields have been known for decades, there has been an explosion of new molecular-level and computational work in the past 5–10 years to establish this new interdisciplinary field, which is ripe for its first focused meeting.

We are delighted to announce that there will be a satellite symposium on Developmental Bioelectricity (see https://www.developmentalbioelectricity.org/), immediately before the 78^th Annual Society for Developmental Biology Meeting in Boston, Massachusetts this summer.  This one-day symposium will take place on July 26^th, from 9:00am to 4:00pm, and individuals registered for the Annual SDB Meeting can attend this symposium without paying an additional registration fee.  Our current speakers include Emily Bates (University of Colorado), Wendy Beane (Western Michigan University), Laura Borodinsky (University of California Davis), Matthew Harris (Harvard University), Xi Huang (University of Toronto), Michael Levin (Tufts University), Kelly McLaughlin (Tufts University), Harry McNamara (Harvard University), Nestor Oviedo (University of California Merced), and Min Zhao (University of California Davis).

We still have a few spots left for talks from graduate students and post-doctoral fellows!  If you are interested in giving a short talk at this Satellite Symposium on your research/on the work you are presenting at the poster session of the Annual SDB Meeting, please contact us at bioelectricity@tufts.edu

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We are seeking potential candidates with an impressive track record and a compelling vision for independent research in the broad area of stem cell and developmental biology. DanStem’s current mission is to achieve a quantitative understanding of cell behavior during development, homeostasis and disease, and we particularly encourage letter of interests from scientists who have quantitative or computational facets to their future plans.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem) addresses fundamental research questions in stem cell and developmental biology and has activities focused on the translation of promising basic research results into new therapeutic strategies for cancer and chronic diseases. While opportunities exist for translation, the primary criteria for membership in DanStem is excellence in fundamental basic research. DanStem is a vibrant, internationally diverse and ambitious research center with state-of-the-art facilities located at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. The setting is ideally suited for seamless collaboration and exchange with other centers and departments of the Faculty and Copenhagen science community. Learn more about DanStem at https://danstem.ku.dk/.

As a group leader, you will initiate a new independent research program within the field of stem cell and developmental biology. DanStem provides a generous support package for the group leader, which includes salary of the group leader, support to other personnel, consumables and modern laboratory and office facilities. The group leader is expected to complement this budget through other national or international grants and/or industrial collaborations. In addition, the group leader is expected to engage in multidisciplinary research collaborations with other DanStem research groups other research groups within the Copenhagen area.

Your background includes a PhD or equivalent degree, postdoctoral training and an experience-appropriate track-record of publications in top journals. International mobility, such as training in high-quality institutions and universities globally will be valued.

We offer

• A generous package, including salary, support to other personnel, consumables.
• Access to cutting edge technologies through shared-resource platforms and staffed expertise in flow cytometry, genomics, imaging, stem cell culture and data analytics.
• A vibrant scientific community, with strong internal synergy, situated for easy collaboration and exchange with other centers and departments at the University of Copenhagen and the greater Danish scientific and clinical communities.
• Opportunities for the development of basic research discoveries into translational research
• Affiliation to the Copenhagen Bioscience PhD Program for international PhD student recruitment and training
• Support from management and DanStem fora with regard to career path and development.
• A local Administration and Research Support unit to support with economy, HR, Research and Innovation.

Inquiries are welcome to Henrik Semb (semb@sund.ku.dk).

Letter of interest

Letters of interest should include a cover letter summarizing the applicant’s career, past research accomplishments (max 1 page) and future plans (max 5 pages), a CV and a list of publications (with up to five of the most significant publications indicated), and names of three references.

The University of Copenhagen International Staff Mobility Office offers assistance and guidance with regard to relocation, e.g., housing, spouse program, pension, taxes, etc. For more information, visit the ISM website:  https://ism.ku.dk/.

DanStem highly values diversity and encourages people of all backgrounds to submit letter of interest, in English to GL-2019@sund.ku.dk.

The closing date for letters of interest is August 1, 2019

Founded in 1479, the University of Copenhagen is the oldest university in Denmark. It is among the largest universities in Scandinavia and is one of the highest ranking in Europe. The University´s six faculties include Health Sciences, Humanities, Law, Science, Social Sciences and Theology. www.ku.dk

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A postdoctoral position is available in the Bush lab bush.ucsf.edu at the University of California, San Francisco to study the cellular basis of morphogenesis using live imaging, mouse genetic, and iPSC and ESC approaches. Our dynamic team focuses on understanding basic mechanisms of signaling control of morphogenesis particularly as related to human structural birth defects. The position is in the collaborative UCSF Department of Cell and Tissue Biology and Program in Craniofacial Biology, located at the UCSF Parnassus Heights campus, in the center of San Francisco. UCSF offers an outstanding developmental biology community, access to cutting edge technologies and a supportive working environment. Candidates with a Ph.D. degree in a biological science and research experience in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or live cell or live embryo imaging should submit a C.V. and names of at least 2 references via email to: jeffrey.bush@ucsf.edu

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The Sun lab at Yale University is currently seeking a postdoctoral candidate. We study the function of the cilium in vertebrate development and diseases, with a particular focus on polycystic kidney disease and primary ciliary dyskinesia. More detailed information about lab research can be found at https://medicine.yale.edu/genetics/people/zhaoxia_sun-2.profile.

We use multidisciplinary approaches ranging from genetics to live imaging in our research. A solid foundation in molecular biology and/or development is a prerequisite. Although the candidate is expected to work with both zebrafish and mouse models, experience in both is not required. In addition to technical proficiency, the ability to drive an independent project and collaborate with scientists within and outside of our group is essential. The successful candidate is also expected to participate multiple joint group meetings by presenting and offering feed backs.

Interested? Please send a cover letter, CV and names and contact information of three references to professor Zhaoxia Sun (Zhaoxia.Sun@Yale.edu)

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The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Urology invites applications for an Instructor (without track, non-tenured) faculty position. Position entails research in genetics and development of the lower urinary tract in normal development and congenital disease.

Experience and Education:
M.D./Ph.D. or Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Developmental Biology or equivalent field in basic science required. Two to five years of postdoctoral training; minimum two publications from Grad School; one every two years during Postdoc. Appointment rank will be commensurate with academic accomplishments and experience.

Job Duties:
Plans, organizes, coordinates, directs, and personally participates in assigned scientific or medical research projects, including development and implementation of research protocols. Selects or assists in selection of key research personnel. Determines specific goals or objectives to be attained; assigns, and reviews work of subordinates. Plans experimental protocols.
Reviews and analyzes resulting research data. Revises techniques or approaches to work problems as indicated necessary by research data.
Compiles, writes, and submits research results to principal investigator. Prepares or assists in preparation of research papers, reports, and abstracts for publication as one of co-authors.
Designs, develops, or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results.
Plans and supervises training of technicians and other laboratory personnel with respect to proper laboratory techniques, use of laboratory equipment, and safety procedures.
Participation in preparation of manuscripts and research funding applications will be required, as well as participation in lab group activities as appropriate.
Confers with industrial, governmental or other groups concerning progress or results of research project.
Performs other duties as assigned.

UT Southwestern Medical Center is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Please apply at the following link:

https://jobs.utsouthwestern.edu/job/instructor-urology-faculty-and-physicians-5323-harry-hines-blvd-da-87181/

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This summer, Development will be publishing a special issue showcasing the best research in stem cell and developmental biology, building on the rapidly evolving tools of single cell analysis. Some papers in the issue have already been published as part of our continuous publication system (see the latest articles here), while other research articles and front section content are still in production.

A special issue deserves a special cover, and that’s why we are running a cover competition. We are looking for beautiful images that capture the theme of development at the single cell level – be they immunofluorescence, computational visualisations or artwork. You don’t have to be an author of a paper in the issue to submit.

The competition deadline is May 06, and the images will be judged by Allon Klein and Barbara Treutlein, guest editors of the issue. To enter, simply send your images via email to aidan.maartens@biologists.com with the subject ‘Cover competition’. The winner will be announced in when the issue is finalised, and will get a complimentary print copy of the special issue.

Happy imaging and good luck!

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The Faculty of Science and the Mathematical Institute invites applications for a
four-year

PhD Student on Mathematical Modeling of Cell-ECM Interactions During Angiogenesis (1.0 fte)
Project description
The opening is for a research position, within the field of mathematical or theoretical biology, computational physics, applied mathematics or computational science.

The outgrowth of new blood vessels from pre-existing vessels, called angiogenesis, is a crucial step in wound healing and tumor growth. Cell-based simulation models help to analyze how cells assemble into blood vessels and other tissue structures. Recently our group has developed novel techniques for modeling one of the key controlling factors of angiogenesis, the extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM is a diverse class of jelly or hard materials providing structural support to the tissue and that acts as a medium for cell-cell communication.

The work will be embedded in the Multiscale Mathematical Biology team at the Mathematical Institute and the Institute of Biology Leiden. The team carries out mathematical biology research in close collaboration with experimental researchers. The team focuses on modelling pattern formation and morphogenesis in multicellular organisms and bacterial ecosystems. More information about the group can be found on biomodel.project.cwi.nl.

Key responsibilities
The project will be part of an NWO-funded Vici-project that will unravel how the extracellular matrix (ECM) coordinates the interactions between endothelial cells and other cells contributing to angiogenesis, and how modifications of the ECM, as they can occur for example near tumors, can modify the structure of new blood vessel networks. In this project you will work closely together with experimental researchers, that will test the mathematical models in the wetlab by imaging of cell cultures and zebrafish experiments.  Your task will be to develop novel mathematical models, which will be informed by literature data and the insights coming from the wetlab. Your models will be experimentally validated by your direct colleagues in the wetlab, based on which you will correct and update your models. Based on cycles of iterative model refinement and experimental validation, you will unravel aspects of angiogenic sprouting, and prepare your insights for publication in the biological, biophysical, and/or biomathematical literature.

The mathematical models will be based on hybrid cellular Potts model, in which stochastic models of cell motility interact with continuum and discrete models of the ECM.  You will contribute to the development of novel and efficient numerical methods for simulating the biomechanics of the ECM, that will interface naturally with pre-existing, stochastic models of endothelial cell behavior. You will integrate the novel methodology into our lab’s modeling framework Tissue Simulation Toolkit, and prepare the new developments for public release alongside our scientific publications.

Selection criteria

• Master’s degree in applied mathematics, computational/theoretical physics, theoretical biology, computer science or a related discipline;
• Excellent written and oral proficiency in English;
• Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment;
• Fluent interdisciplinary communication skills with scientists in cell biology and mathematics;
• Keen interest in cell and developmental biology;
• Experience in (numerical) mathematical modeling (e.g., Cellular Potts modeling, particle-based simulations, PDEs, FBA);
• Excellent programming skills in C++.

Research at our faculty
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are driven by curiosity to expand fundamental knowledge and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,200 staff and almost 4,200 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together. For more information, see http://www.science.leidenuniv.nl.

The Mathematical Institute (MI) is responsible for the research and education in mathematics and statistics at Leiden University. The institute has a strong international orientation. Its mission is to perform high quality research at the frontiers of mathematical knowledge, and to educate future generations of mathematicians and statisticians in a friendly but challenging environment. For more information see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/mathematics.

The Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL) is an internationally oriented institute for research and education in biology. IBL performs top quality innovative fundamental and strategic research that will lead to scientific progress, contribute to solutions for societal challenges, and generate industrial opportunities, reflected in the general theme ‘Healthy Lives in a Changing World’. The Institute is organized in three multidisciplinary clusters: Animal Sciences & Health, Plant Sciences & Natural Products and Microbial Biotechnology & Health. For more information see: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/biology. There is a large research community in The Netherlands (in particular, in Leiden), including many PhD students. There is close collaborating nationwide.

Terms and conditions  
We offer a full-time position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary range from € 2,325.- to € 2,972.- gross per month (pay scale P, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses(8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.  Additional budget allows for research visits abroad and attendance of international conferences. More at http://www.workingat.leiden.edu/.

All our PhD students are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science www.graduateschools.leidenuniv.nl. Our graduate school offers several PhD training courses at three levels: professional courses, skills training and personal effectiveness. In addition, advanced courses to deepen scientific knowledge are offered by the research school.

Diversity
Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups.

Information
Enquiries about the position can be made to Prof. dr. Roeland Merks, merksrmh (on server:) math.leidenuniv.nl. Also see the group website at http://biomodel.project.cwi.nl.

Applications
To apply for this vacancy, please send an email to merksrmh (on server: ) math.leidenuniv.nl. Please ensure that you join to your application the vacancy number and the following additional documents:

•              A letter of motivation

•              An updated CV

•              The letters of recommendation by 1 or 2 former supervisors

•              The transcripts of your MSc studies

•              Examples of previously written code

Only applications received before April 15th, 2019 will be considered.

Enquiries from agencies are not appreciated.

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The Faculty of Science and Institute of Biology are looking for a

Senior Research Technician in Cell and Developmental Biology and Imaging

Key responsibilities
The opening is for a research technician position within the field of cell and developmental biology and imaging. The position is in an interdisciplinary team of mathematical and experimental biologists. Our team specializes in the mathematical and computational modeling of angiogenesis. We are currently setting up an experimental research line, which will directly test the mathematical models in the lab. Discrepancies between the lab observations and the mathematical models identify the gaps in our understanding, based on which the mathematical models will be updated or rejected.   Our team focuses in particular on the coordination of collective endothelial cell behavior by the extracellular matrix (ECM). We will use cell cultures, followed by in vivo studies in the zebrafish.

As senior technician you will actively participate in the interdisciplinary research of our group. You will be responsible for setting up and running experimental work to test our mathematical models in collaboration with an experimental PhD student and with a number of PhD students in mathematical modeling.

Your key tasks include:

• Setting up and maintaining experimental systems such as cell cultures, lab-on-a-chip, zebrafish, in vitro and in vivo imaging using time-lapse microscopy, quantitative reflection microscopy, TIRF, and 4D imaging using a VAST system;
• Fluorescent imaging of dynamic cell behavior, cell morphology and ECM characteristics in vitro and in vivo under the influence of a range of pharmacological and genetic experimental interventions, including ECM characteristics such as stiffness, matrix orientation and acidity using imaging techniques, which will lead to insight in conjunction with the model;
• Active participation in image analysis and digital annotation of the results;
• Practical assistance of the PhD student, including teaching of experimental skills;
• Active participation in the research projects, including interpretation and reporting.

Selection criteria

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in cell biology, biophysics, imaging or a related discipline, with minimally 2 years of relevant work experience. Applications from postdocs will also be considered;
• Outstanding experimental skills in cell and developmental biology and imaging;
• Keen interest or experience with image analysis and/or mathematical modeling approaches;
• Fluent interdisciplinary communication skills with scientists in cell biology and mathematics;
• Excellent written and oral proficiency in English;
• Ability and enthusiasm for working in a multidisciplinary environment;
• You are a team player, but also able to work independently;
• You take initiative and have a strong interest in academic research.

Research at our Faculty
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are driven by curiosity to expand fundamental knowledge and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 1,300 staff and almost 4,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

The Institute of Biology (IBL) is positioned in the Faculty of Sciences. The core business of IBL is to perform top quality innovative fundamental and strategic research that will lead to scientific progress, contribute to solutions for societal challenges, and generate industrial opportunities. The Institute is organised in three multidisciplinary clusters: Animal Sciences & Health, Plant Sciences & Natural Products and Microbial Biotechnology & Health. Presently, over 120 fte (including postdocs and PhDs) are employed at IBL.

The Mathematical Institute (MI) is responsible for the research and education in mathematics and statistics at Leiden University. The institute has a strong international orientation. Its mission is to perform high quality research at the frontiers of mathematical knowledge, and to educate future generations of mathematicians and statisticians in a friendly but challenging environment.

Terms and conditions
We offer a one year term position with the possibility of renewal based on need, funding and performance. The salary range is from €2.835 to €3.895 gross per month (pay scale 9 in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. More at: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions.

Diversity
Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups.

Information
For more information about the IBL, please visit https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/biology.

Enquiries can be made to Prof. dr. Roeland Merks,  telephone 071-5277106, email r.m.h.merks  (on server)  biology.leidenuniv.nl. More information about the research group is at http://biomodel.project.cwi.nl.

Applications
To apply for this vacancy, please send an email to sylvius  (on server) biology.leidenuniv.nl with a motivation letter, cv and the names and phone numbers of two referees, no later than April 26. Interviews will take place in week 19. You are kindly requested to be available during this time

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