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EMBO selects Babraham immunologist for its prestigious Young Investigator Programme

11 November 2011

Marc Veldhoen, Group Leader at the Babraham Institute which receives strategic funding from BBSRC, has been selected as one of 22 new scientists to join the prestigious EMBO Young Investigator Programme, which aims to support the career development of Europe's most promising young researchers.

"The EMBO Young Investigators have the potential to be tomorrow's life science leaders," says Gerlind Wallon, EMBO Deputy Director and manager of the Young Investigator Programme. "They are already active contributors to science in Europe and, by supporting them, EMBO wants to highlight both their work and their potential."

Selected for excellence in research from 164 applications in 2011, the scientists join a growing network of more than 300 young group leaders with access to a comprehensive array of networking, training, mentorship and funding opportunities. EMBO Members act as mentors to the Young Investigators, helping them to develop their careers. The young scientists join a dynamic network of current and former young investigators and installation grantees that encourages collaboration.

Marc, who joined the Babraham Institute in 2010, joins an internationally-regarded team of immunologists, carrying out research to identify the molecular and biochemical mechanisms required for the development of the immune system and how immune function changes during ageing.

Babraham's Director, Professor Michael Wakelam, said, "We are delighted that Marc has been selected for this prestigious scheme supporting the career development of some of Europe's most promising researchers. His recent research, revealing how dietary insufficiencies can adversely impact the immune system, is bringing new insight to understanding the basis of intestinal inflammatory disorders. A greater understanding of immunity and how the immune system is established is central to the goal of promoting a healthier lifespan."

The Babraham Institute undertakes world-leading life sciences research to generate new knowledge of biological mechanisms underpinning ageing, development and the maintenance of health. Recent research has brought new insight that will inform strategies for combating autoimmune diseases, developing tumour immunotherapy and vaccine development.

ENDS

About BBSRC

BBSRC invests in world-class bioscience research and training on behalf of the UK public. Our aim is to further scientific knowledge, to promote economic growth, wealth and job creation and to improve quality of life in the UK and beyond.

Funded by Government, and with an annual budget of around £445M, we support research and training in universities and strategically funded institutes. BBSRC research and the people we fund are helping society to meet major challenges, including food security, green energy and healthier, longer lives. Our investments underpin important UK economic sectors, such as farming, food, industrial biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

For more information about BBSRC, our science and our impact see: www.bbsrc.ac.uk .
For more information about BBSRC strategically funded institutes see: www.bbsrc.ac.uk/institutes .

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