Society for Endocrinology

Diabetes Clinical Nurse Specialist, London

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via www.healthjobsuk.com. Barts and The London NHS Trust are seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated, experienced first level RGN, ideally educated to degree level, with good communication skills, organisational skills and basic IT skills. You will work alongside the Senior Diabetes Specialist Nurse and be part of an innovative and committed team that welcomes new challenges in the ever changing NHS. The nursing team cover 3 geographical sites as part of the in-patient service role (St Bartholomew, The Royal London and the London Chest Hospital) and attend a couple of Out–patient clinics.

The role includes managing a caseload of adult patients, providing education, support and information to patients, women with gestational diabetes and professional health care workers. You will facilitate training for Diabetes Link Nurses and ward nurses and work closely with the multi-disciplinary diabetes team. Informal visit encouraged. In order to streamline recruitment within our Trust we reserve the right to expire vacancies prior to the advertised closing date once we have received a sufficient number of applications. If you are shortlisted we will contact you via the NHS Jobs e-recruitment system, so please ensure you continue to check your email and junk mail folders in web-based email products. Success at Shortlisting stage depends on your supporting statement and how well it reflects the job description and essential person specification requirements for the role. All employees will now work 37.5 hours per week in accordance with Agenda for Change. Please click on the link below for further details. The closing date for applications is 15 July 2009.

Job advert

Vitae innovate - call for bids

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Vitae is a national organisation championing the personal, professional and career development of doctoral researchers and research staff in higher education institutions and research institutes. We play a major role in the drive for high-level skills and innovation and in the UK's goal to produce world class researchers. Vitae innovate will include a range of activities to promote innovative approaches and projects in the field of the personal, professional and career development of researchers. It includes a new funding stream to support innovative projects. In this, the first round, funding of up to a total of £100,000 will be allocated.

Our vision is for the UK to be world-class in supporting the personal, professional and career development of researchers. To achieve our vision we have four main aims: 1. Championing the development and implementation of effective policy, 2. Enhancing higher education provision through sharing practice and resources, 3. Providing access to development opportunities and resources, 4. Building an evidence base to support the researcher development agenda.

This fund recognises an opportunity to build on the excellent work undertaken to date, especially in response to the Roberts review of 2002 and the 2007 Concordat to support the career development of researchers. It aims to encourage the introduction of innovative approaches or projects into the researcher development field. The deadline for bids to the first round of funding is 31 July 2009; further details can be found at the website below.

Further details

Autumn Endocrine Retreat 2009 - Register now

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The 2nd Society for Endocrinology Autumn Endocrine Retreat will be held at Milton Hill House, Steventon, Oxfordshire from 16-18 October 2009. This initiative aims to further meet the educational needs of trainee members not already addressed by the Society. The retreat will: provide an informal setting for PhD students/early post-docs to gain experience in presenting work; encourage trainee members to actively participate in the event and provide networking opportunities. Registration for this meeting is now open at the website below, and will close on 31 July 2009. Read about last year's retreat and find out first hand how students benefited from the experience at the link below.

Reports from last year's retreat

Science Communication Officer, British Heart Foundation

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

A rare opportunity has arisen for a talented and creative science communicator to join an award-winning team that plays a key role within the British Heart Foundation. We are the largest independent funder of cardiovascular research in the UK, which helps save lives by advancing prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart and circulatory diseases. Thriving in a fast-paced environment, you will be talented at identifying great research stories and bringing these to life for the media, our website and our supporters. This varied role would suit an enthusiastic science writer/communicator with superb interpersonal skills and, ideally, press office experience. You will be able to juggle tasks and work under pressure to deliver a first class service within the charity, and be a fluent/natural writer, skilled at tailoring information for a range of audiences. You'll get to work with diverse teams across the charity, as well as some of the top cardiovascular scientists in the UK. As this role requires handling of research information, so a degree in a biomedical science and work experience in a related field is essential, and a communication qualification is also desirable. Please note this a 1 year FTC to cover maternity leave.

Job advert

ST3 in Diabetes & Endocrinology and General Medicine, Nottingham

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via www.healthjobsuk.com. Applicants are invited for a Specialty Registrar (ST3) appointment on the East Midlands North rotation in Diabetes and Endocrinology and General Medicine. The post is due to commence in August 2009. The rotation offers first class training in acute general medicine and specialist training in all aspects of Diabetes and Endocrinology and meets College curriculum requirements in these specialties. There are opportunities for both clinical and basic science research and the successful applicants will be expected to take advantage of them. There is a well established structured postgraduate training programme and the successful applicant will be expected to participate in these sessions. Possession of MRCP Part 1 is essential. Full MRCP would be desirable and some research experience would also be desirable.

Application details can be found at the link below - the closing deadline for application submission is 9.00 am, 20 July 2009. All candidates will need to hold full GMC registration at the time of appointment. In the event of further training opportunities becoming available in this specialty shortlisted candidates may also be considered for these posts.

Job advert

Enhancing Excellence in Endocrinology - Senior Leaders training course

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

E3 – Enhancing Excellence in Endocrinology is an educational initiative dedicated to the provision of personal and professional development for those working in adult and paediatric endocrinology. E3 is pleased to announce the forthcoming high-level personal and professional skills training experience for senior leaders on 24–25 September at the Warwick University Conference Centre. The course is aimed at consultants in adult and paediatric endocrinology who have been in their consultant post for at least 5 years.

'Senior Leaders' is a 2-day course being delivered in association with the Society for Endocrinology for a maximum of 20 senior leaders. The course is comprised of discursive plenary sessions and workshops delivered by professionals from leading healthcare organisations and communication and business skills trainers. You will be able to attend one of the following workshops on Day 2: Challenging conversations and the 8 step coaching model; Situational leadership; Change leadership and working smarter; Negotiation skills.

Attendance is limited and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis, so please register your interest early by visiting the E3 website (at the link below) where you can register to become a member of E3 and enrol in the course. For further information, contact the E3 Secretariat: Tel: 020 7632 1849, Fax: 020 7632 1970, Email: e3secretariat@litmus-mme.com.

E3 website

New Chair for BBSRC

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Professor Sir Tom Blundell FRS FMedSci has been formally appointed as the new Chair of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Sir Tom succeeds Dr Peter Ringrose from 1 July 2009 and has been appointed for four years.

BBSRC website

PhD Studentship in Vascular Disease and Diabetes, Dublin

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via naturejobs.com. Applications are invited for a SFI funded PhD position in the School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Ireland to carry out a project entitled: The Role of Insulin Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 1 in the Cardiovascular Complications of Type 2 Diabetes. Our research group is interested in elucidating the role of the insulin like growth factors and their binding proteins in the development of diabetes complications. Epidemiological studies have shown that type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke. Although they are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, the pathogenic mechanism(s) underlying cardio and cerebrovascular disease in type 2 diabetes are not completely understood.

Insulin like growth factor (IGF) -I is a peptide hormone with structural and functional homology with proinsulin. IGF-I activity is regulated primarily at the level of bioavailability by a family of specific IGF binding proteins (IGFBP), one of which (IGFBP-1) is directly regulated by insulin. Data from genetic and epidemiological studies have identified low IGF-I and IGFBP-1 levels as risk factors for ischaemic heart disease. Consistent with this observation, studies from our own laboratory using a transgenic mouse model have shown that increased IGFBP-1 levels enhance production of nitric oxide, a potent vasoprotective molecule in the vasculature. The proposed studies will explore the role of IGF-I and IGFBP-1 in the pathogenesis of the cardiovascular complications of type 2 diabetes in animal models.

Further details can be found at the website below. The closing date for applications is 31 July 2009.

Job advert

Academy of Medical Sciences Foulkes Foundation Medal

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via rdfunding.org.uk. The aim of this award is to bring recognition to an individual for excellence in research in the biomedical sciences and inspire and encourage others to pursue a career in biomedical research. Awarded every two years, the medal is named after Dr Ernest Foulkes, who during the post 2nd world war years became increasingly aware of the need in medical research for more medical doctors who were trained in both scientific and clinical medicine, who would be able to translate new scientific knowledge into clinical practice and to direct scientific research towards medically important goals.

The winner will be awarded a medal and prize of £1,000 and be invited to give a lecture at an Academy of Medical Sciences event. Nominations for the 2009 medal are now open with a closing date of 18 September 2009. Nominations should be made via a letter to the Academy summarising the nominee's principal achievements and their significance and impact. Further details can be found at the link below.

Further details

NIHR Walport Academic Clinical Lectureships in Diabetes and Endocrinology

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via www.jobs.ac.uk. Applications are invited for two Walport NIHR Clinical Lecturers on the Specialty Training Programme in Diabetes and Endocrinology at Barts & the London School of Medicine & Dentistry. The post-holders will be expected to develop a programme of original research and play a pivotal role in the research activities of the participating departments, while completing their clinical specialist training in Diabetes and Endocrinology. The NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer programme is designed to support the development of individuals to become future leaders of research in their clinical academic field.

Applicants must be registered with the GMC and enrolled in a higher specialist training programme in Diabetes and Endocrinology in the UK. They must also have completed study for an MD or PhD degree, and, if the degree is not yet awarded, must be demonstrably close to submission of their thesis at the time of application. Evidence of peer reviewed publications in good quality journals is essential, along with demonstration of the potential for scientific independence and team leadership.

Salary will be on the Clinical Lecturer scale consistent with the appointee's current specialist training scale up to £53,132 per annum plus London weighting of £1,470 per annum. The posts are 50% academic training and 50% clinical specialty training and are available from 1 August 2009 for 3 years. Interested candidates are invited to contact Professor Graham Hitman (g.a.hitman@qmul.ac.uk) or Professor Adrian Clark (a.j.clark@qmul.ac.uk) for an informal discussion about these posts. Application details can be found at the link below. The deadline for return of completed applications is 10 July 2009.

Job advert

Clinical Fellow in Diabetes and Endocrinology, London

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via healthjobsuk.com. Barts and The London NHS Trust – The Royal London Hospital are offering a Clinical Fellow (SHO grade) post in Diabetes in Endocrinology which will be available from 5th August 2009 for up to a year in the first instance. The post-holder may prefer to rotate through two or three of the available specialties every 4 to 6 months, or stay in one specialty the whole time, depending on their previous experience and future plans. The post would be highly suitable for experienced SHOs who have completed Foundation and Core Medical competencies (or equivalent), and wish to gain a period of focussed experience and training in a medical specialty in which they are interested in pursuing ST3 training. They would be suitable for candidates who are attempting the second parts of the MRCP examination. However, less experienced candidates will also be considered.

There are numerous educational opportunities at the Royal London Hospital. As there are no on call commitments, the post-holders will be free to attend the following weekly daytime teaching sessions: Medical Grand Round; Hot Case (Case of the Week); Core Medical Training teaching sessions; Specialty meetings e.g. Respiratory Journal Club. Further details can be found at the website below. The closing date for applications is 5 July 2009.

Job advert

The Benevolent Fund of The Physiological Society

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Benevolent Fund of The Physiological Society was established in 1976 "for the purpose of assisting Members of The Society and staff and former staff (who by the nature of their employment can be considered to have contributed to the advance of Physiology) employed at teaching, research and industrial establishments who are in necessitous circumstances and their dependants". The Fund can help qualifying individuals by making grants or interest free loans.

The majority of the charitable fund comes from donations made by Members of The Society, and some non-Members. All money donated to the Benevolent Fund goes directly into the charitable account. Due to its association with The Society, the minimal administration costs are absorbed by The Society itself. Therefore every penny you donate goes to help people in need.

Individuals in need, or those who know of someone who might qualify for help are asked to write, in confidence, to any of the Trustees of the Fund. The names and contact details of the current trustees are given on the website below. For advice or queries regarding the Fund please email ebell@physoc.org or call 020 7269 5713.

Further information

National Osteoporosis Society Project Grants and Innovative Awards

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The National Osteoporosis Society (NOS) is seeking applications which clearly demonstrate how they will provide benefits to the general population with osteoporosis and that support our research strategy. Applications are open for Project Grants of £150,000 over 3 years (maximum) and Innovative Awards of £20,000 over 12 months. The closing date for submission of Stage 1 applications is 31 July 2009. Further information is available at the website below, or by contacting NOS at: research@nos.org.uk.

NOS website

National Osteoporosis Society PhD Studentship

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The National Osteoporosis Society (NOS) have opened applications for the Linda Edwards Memorial Ph.D. Studentship. A maximum of £25,000 per annum is available for up to four years. Applications are sought which clearly demonstrate how they will provide benefits to the general population with osteoporosis and that support our research strategy. Further details are available at the link below, or by contacting NOS at research@nos.org.uk. The closing date for initial applications is 31 July 2009.

NOS website

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Endocrine Society have produced a scientific statement on endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The statement can be downloaded at the link below.

Statement

Cost of diabetes prescriptions 'almost doubled in the past six years' (Daily Telegraph, 12 June 2009)

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The cost of prescriptions to control diabetes has almost doubled in the past six years, new figures show.

Full article

Patients, clinicians and industry welcome EU Health Ministers' move to tackle rare diseases

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Rare Disease UK, the national alliance of patient charities, medical professionals and industry representatives, has welcomed the adoption by EU Health Ministers of a Council Recommendation that calls on Member States to develop and implement plans or strategies for the treatment of rare diseases.

Alastair Kent, Chair of Rare Disease UK, said: ?This is an important step forward for the estimated 3.5 million people in the UK who are affected by rare disease, We are also delighted that this initiative has received wide cross-party support. It now needs to be taken forward in all the nations of the UK.? He added: ?It is important that families affected by rare conditions are offered a strategic approach to the provision of their healthcare. We are still hearing frequently that patients are having difficulties accessing high quality care and services. A national strategy for integrated service delivery would help to ensure that these vital services reach all the people who so desperately need them.?

There are over 6000 rare conditions identified, and they affect over 3.5 million people in the UK and over 30 million people in the EU at some point in their life.

Rare Disease UK

Medical Advisor in Endocrinology, Surrey

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

An excellent opportunity has opened to join one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies as Medical Advisor in the field of Endocrinology at their fantastic Head Office in Surrey. Responsibilities for this role include: Providing medical and scientific support to healthcare professionals and professional bodies through scientific communications and support for clinical research to facilitate a medical and scientific bridge between our client and the healthcare community; Providing specialist medical and scientific advice to colleagues to drive the appropriate use and commercial success of nominated company medicines.

As a successful candidate, you will be a doctor or nurse with a medical degree, and experience in the field of endocrinology. Desirable qualities include a post-graduate medical qualification, industry experience and the intention to work towards Dip Pham Med or equivalent. An outstanding basic salary of between £55,000 - £70,000 is on offer (dependent on role and experience), as well as an excellent bonus and benefits package.

This is an excellent opportunity to join an industry-leading organisation. Our client is looking for a team player with good commercial and business acumen. If you feel you could be the right candidate for this, then for more information please contact Chris Lambert at PanMedica on tel: 020 7242 9089. If you do not hear from us within 7 days please assume that on this occasion your application has been unsuccessful.

Pituitary tumour removal (Channel 4, 28 May 2009)

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

A live surgery demonstrating removal of a pituitary tumour was aired on channel 4 last month. The surgery was performed by Mr Nick Thomas, consultant neurosurgeon at King's College London. Video highlights are available on the website below.

Live surgery website

Supplies of phenoxybenzamine capsules

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The supplier of licensed phenoxybenzamine ("Dibenyline") capsules, Goldshield Pharmaceuticals, has experienced manufacturing difficulties with this product, and are currently out of stock. They are working to resolve the problem, but say that the product is unlikely to be available before the end of August 2009.

Although Goldshield are the sole suppliers of UK licensed phenoxybenzamine capsules, phenoxybenzamine capsules are available abroad and a number of companies specialise in importing unlicensed medicines for use on an individual patient basis. Under the medicines legislation, doctors can prescribe unlicensed medicines but they do so on their own responsibility, and are fully liable for their patients' welfare.

The Society is maintaining close contact with the Principal Pharmacist at the Department of Health and the UK Head of Goldshield Pharmaceuticals and we will keep you updated on further developments.

Diabetes warning signs detected (BBC news online, 9 June 2009)

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

A new study published in The Lancet shows that changes in the body's blood sugar levels and sensitivity to insulin are apparent a few years before symptoms of diabetes are diagnosed.

Full article

A window on the hormone factory (AlphaGalileo, 8 June 2009)

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Surgeons in Norway are using ultrasonics to improve their view during surgery to remove pituitary tumours.

Full article

BioSciAlliance - the new gateway of services from BioScientifica

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

From the end of June, Society members will be amongst the first to access a new website, providing a single gateway to exciting and innovative services, including tools to encourage communication and collaboration, as well as more convenient payment services. The BioSciAlliance website (www.bioscialliance.org) will offer a range of services to members of the associated societies. Services include: membership renewal; access to BioScientifica abstract management and registration systems; a single interface to update all societies’ membership details; a broad search facility to locate collaborators and other contacts. The website will be offered to all clients of the BioScientifica Secretariat service.

BioSciAlliance will enable members to build their own personal profiles, and share these with colleagues and friends through a simple web address. Within the website, members will be able to search the membership lists of all societies of which they are a member, to find colleagues based on their geographical location, interests or areas of research. It will also include a calendar service, to allow members to browse and search BioScientifica World Calendar of Events, and a news service, presenting small articles on a range of biomedical specialities.

BioSciAlliance

Society for Endocrinology/Caledonian Society for Endocrinology Regional Clinical Cases Meeting

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The second Regional Clinical Cases meeting will take place at the Royal Society of Edinburgh on 4 December 2009. The first highly successful meeting was held in Birmingham in association with the Midlands Endocrine Club. The afternoon will be similar to the London Clinical Cases meeting and will consist of ten oral communication presentations made up from high scoring submitted abstracts. The evening will see the Caledonian Society’s annual meeting hosting a guest speaker and a prize lecture.

If you wish to submit a case for this meeting all information will be available shortly at the website below. In the meantime if you have any questions please contact the conference secretariat at conferences@endocrinology.org or call +44 (0) 1454 642 240.

Regional clinical cases

Postgraduate Essay Prize

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Society is pleased to announce a new initiative - the Postgraduate Essay Prize. A prize of £1,000 will be awarded to the winning entry, which must be on a topical endocrine subject and readily understood by an educated lay person. Essays should be fun and engaging and of a standard between New Scientist and the science pages of a quality broadsheet newspaper. For full eligibility criteria and further details, please click on the link below. The first application deadline is 14 September 2009.

Postgraduate Essay Prize

AMRC Policy Update - Cabinet re-shuffle and creation of DBIS

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Following the Government reshuffle there have been big changes to where the science portfolio sits in government. The Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) has been merged with the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR) to create a new Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (DBIS). Lord Mandelson is now the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills and Lord Drayson remains the Minister of State responsible for Science & Innovation, now situated in DBIS.

More information about the newly formed DBIS is available at the link below.

Further information

National Endocrine Nursing Conference 2009 - registration open

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The National Endocrine Nursing Conference 2009 is a three-day residential course to be held at the University of Northumbria on 7-9 September 2009. This meeting is RCN accredited and will focus on the thyroid gland. The conference programme and registration is now available at the link below. If you would like to present a poster at the meeting, please see the website below for further details.

Nursing conference 2009

Selective venous sampling for androgen-producing ovarian pathology

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The value of selective venous sampling (SVS) as an aid to the diagnosis of androgen-secreting ovarian tumours is not well established. Levens and co-workers evaluated 4 patients and an additional 132 previously reported cases with SVS data and a pathological diagnosis. They found that a serum testosterone greater than 4.5 mmol/l was associated with increased risk of tumour and that a R:L ovarian testosterone ratio greater than 1.4 correctly identified 90% of R-sided tumours and a ratio greater than 1.4 correctly identified 86% of L-sided or bilateral lesions. Overall, SVS enabled correct localisation in 66% of cases, suggesting the technique may be useful when conventional imaging is unrevealing. Levens, E.D., Whitcomb, B.W., Csokmay, J.M., Nieman, L.K. Clinical Endocrinology, 70:4, 606 - 614 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2008.03389.x

New drug olaparib offers hope to women with genetic breast cancer (The Times, 1 June 2009)

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Olaparib (AstraZeneca), a new drug for the treatment of genetic breast cancer, has shown promise in its first trial in patients. Olaparib was found to shrink the growth of tumours in over 40% cases in the study of 54 women with advanced genetic breast cancer.

Full article

'Cancer hope' from diabetes drug (BBC news online, 3 June 2009)

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Metformin, a drug commonly used to treat type-2 diabetes, may enhance the effects of a vaccine against cancer, according to a report published in Nature.

Full article

British Thyroid Association survey to assess levels of dietary iodine in the UK (Medical News Today, 1 June 2009)

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The British Thyroid Association (BTA) are conducting a survey to assess levels of dietary iodine in the UK. The survey is aimed at 14-15 year old girls and will be based in 10 centres across the country.

Full article

Cistromics of hormone-dependent cancer

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Mathieu Lupien and Myles Brown review the wealth of information derived from cistrome-based studies and describe how this reveals the core concepts of transcriptional regulation. Since this has a direct impact on signaling through nuclear receptors, these discoveries should significantly influence the development of novel therapeutic strategies directed against multiple types of cancer. Lupien, M and Brown, M. Endocrine-Related Cancer 16 (2) 381 -389, DOI: 10.1677/ERC-09-0038

Liver cells induced to express insulin present potential new treatment for diabetes

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Research carried out in the USA by Nagaya et al (2009) could lead to a new source of beta cells that may be used in the treatment of diabetes. The authors successfully induced intrahepatic biliary epithelial cells (IHBECs) to secrete insulin, thereby confirming the potential for diabetic patients in the future to receive treatment using their own cells.

The authors used a novel method of transducing cells with adenoviruses expressing PDX-1, NEUROD, or PDX-1/VP16. IHBECs in male mice were isolated by liver perfusion and then cultured in various media before being randomly assigned to a study group. Group 1 remained unchanged at the end of culturing. Group 2 was transduced with adenovirus expressing green fluorescent protein and group 3 was transduced with adenovirus expressing Pdx-1,-Neurogenin 3, NeuroD, Pax 4, and Pdx-1/VP16. IHBECs were measured for insulin production 7 days after transduction and Ad-Pdx-1, NeuroD, and Pdx-1/VP16 transduced IHBECs were found to be releasing insulin. The authors conclude therefore, that it is possible to differentiate IHBECs into insulin producing cells.

These results could provide an effective solution to barriers that have prevented a treatment based on transplanting beta cells being developed thus far, namely, a shortage of tissue and the need for immunosuppressive drugs. The research carried out by Nagaya et al could lead to a breakthrough treatment for diabetic patients by providing a new source of beta cells and removing the need for immunosuppressive drugs.

Nagaya, M., Katsuta, H., Kaneto, H., Bonner-Weir, S., Weir, G.C. Journal of Endocrinology 201:37-47, DOI: 10.1677/JOE-08-0482

ESPE Visiting Scholarship

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) Visiting Scholarship offers financial support to members of the Society or to their collaborators in the view of gathering information and experience on a specific research issue OR on a laboratory technique in the field of paediatric endocrinology. Proposed projects should endeavour to increase general know-how in paediatric endocrinology at the recipient's home institution. The stated aim of the scholarship, as agreed upon by ESPE and the sponsoring company, is to help recipients to overcome unforeseen obstacles which may arise in the course of a research project in a simple, quick and streamlined manner.

The ESPE Visiting Scholarship is awarded on the basis of nominations made by an ESPE member. Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate how they intend to bring important knowledge and/or techniques back to their home institution. Full details can be found at the website below. The next closing date for applications is 31 July 2009.

ESPE website

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Career Development Awards

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via rdfunding.org.uk. The primary purpose of the Career Development Award is to attract qualified and promising scientists early in their faculty careers and to give them the opportunity to establish themselves in areas that reflect the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) research emphasis areas. JDRF fosters the development and productivity of the best and the brightest established independent researchers who will bridge the gap between the bench and bedside. In the five-year term of the award, awardees will focus their research efforts on a subject directly related to JDRF mission goals and research priorities, and position themselves to work at the leading edge of type 1 diabetes research. These awards are designed to assist exceptionally promising investigators. Although JDRF is especially interested in fostering careers in clinical investigation, Career Development Awards may emphasize either basic or clinical topics.

The award is up to $150,000 per year, including indirect costs. These funds may be used for research allowance, which can include a technician, supplies, equipment and travel up to $2000 per year. Salary requests must be consistent with the established salary structure of the applicant's institution. Indirect costs (excluding equipment) may not exceed 10% of subtotal direct costs. Please see JDRF’s budget guidelines for details. Applications can be submitted online up to the closing date of 15 July 2009. Further details can be found at the website below or by contacting Research Administrator, Tel: 001 800 533 2873.

Further information

Diabetes UK Equipment Grants

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Diabetes UK equipment grants are to enable the purchase of a specific large item of multi user equipment necessary for diabetes related research projects. Support is normally requested for up to three years; however, longer periods of time may be requested if scientifically justified. The maximum amount that may normally be requested is £100,000. Applications for less than £20,000 will not normally be considered under this scheme. Diabetes UK expects that applications will normally include a contribution from the host institution or other source. As a guide, we would normally expect a minimum contribution in the region of 20 per cent of the total cost of the equipment. This contribution may be towards the purchase of the equipment or the running costs. Applicants should be in receipt of substantial grant funding either from Diabetes UK or other funding bodies. Further details can be found at the website below. The closing date for applications is 1 December 2009.

Diabetes UK

Call for Medal nominations

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Society seeks eminent endocrinologists to deliver medal lectures at the SfE BES 2011 meeting. Nominations should be submitted to the Society by 31 July 2009. Full details can be found at the link below.

Medal nominations

Postdoctoral Position, Boston, USA

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via naturejobs.com. There is a post-doctoral position available in the Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School to study the actions of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) receptor (PPR) on osteocytes in vivo. The main goal of the project is to understand the role of PPRs in osteocytes and to determine the function(s) of these cells in mediating the effects of the hormone on bone. Candidate should have a recent Ph.D. degree in biology and experience with murine ?in vivo? studies. Additional experience in bone biology and signal transduction is strongly preferred. Candidates must be self-motivated, creative and independent. Send curriculum vitae, brief statement of research interests and names of three references to: Paola Divieti Pajevic, MD, PhD , Endocrine Unit, Their 1101 Mass General Hospital,50 Blossom Street, Boston MA 02114, USA or by e-mail to: divieti@helix.mgh.harvard.edu. The closing date for applications is 31 October 2009.

Job advert

Have your say in the running of the Society - join a committee

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Details of vacancies and nomination forms can be found under the specific committees at the website below. The deadline for nominations is 31 July 2009.

Join a committee

SfE BES 2009 Medal lectures on the web

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

For the first time, the Society has been able to make recordings of Medal Lectures available on the web. Members will be required to log-in to the members' area of the website (at the link below) to access the lectures. Members who do not have log-in credentials should obtain them by following the instructions at the 'lost password' link below.

Members' section

Lost password

Clinical Update 2009 - registration open

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

This year's Clinical Update will take place at the Renaissance Manchester Hotel, Manchester on 2-4 November 2009. Registration for this meeting is now open at the link below with an early bird deadline of 1 October 2009. Case submission details and a preliminary programme are also available on the Clinical Update website.

Clinical Update 2009

1st Basic Postgraduate Course of the European Society of Endocrinology

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The 1st Basic Postgraduate Course of the European Society of Endocrinology will be held on 24-26 September 2009 in Torino, Italy. The course aims to be a high level course on basic research with deep discussions, where both speakers and students participate in an interactive manner. In particular the course is addressed to all researchers interested in deepening their knowledge in basic research, translational medicine biology and biotechnology, related not only to endocrinology but also to other fields such as cancer, immunology, and cardiovascular system. Further information, including the scientific programme and registration details can be found at the website below.

Scientist-in-Training Members of the Society for Endocrinology may apply for a travel grant at the 15 August deadline to attend this event.

Further details

SfE travel grant

Clinical Excellence Awards 2010

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Clinical Excellence Awards are given to recognise and reward the exceptional contribution of NHS consultants, over and above that normally expected in a job, to the values and goals of the NHS and to patient care. The Society has successfully supported members' nominations in previous years, and we are pleased to offer this service again for the 2010 round. Please contact Abhi Vora at the Bristol office (abhi.vora@endocrinology.org) as soon as possible if you wish the Society to support your nomination. All applications for Society support must be submitted by Friday 11 September 2009 in order to start the support process for 2010. Further details at the links below.

ICE 2010

Thu, 28 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The 14th International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE 2010) will be held in Kyoto, Japan on 26-30 March 2010. ICE2010 Kyoto is the new style of ICE under the new statutes of the International Society of Endocrinology (ISE). As the host society, the Japan Endocrine Society is planning to organise an outstanding congress on endocrinology and metabolism in science that will also foster international friendship. Twelve official satellite symposia are also planned before and after the main congress in Kyoto and other cities. Further information can be found at the ICE 2010 website below.

Important dates: Registration is now open at the website below; the early bird deadline is 31 October 2009. Abstract submission: 15 July - 15 September 2009.

ICE 2010

Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Cancer Research UK

Thu, 14 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Cancer Research UK has appointed Ellwood & Atfield to recruit a new Director of Policy & Public Affairs. This is a strategically important position to ensure the charity continues to shape the agenda for cancer services and research policy at the highest levels of Government. For further information, click on the link below or telephone 020 7340 6480.

Job advert

Society Grants

Mon, 11 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Society for Endocrinology offers a number of grants which members can apply for throughout the year. These include: clinical department visit grants, sponsored seminars and poster session grants, and conference travel grants. For details on how to apply for Society grants, please visit the website below. If you have any questions about Society grants, please email: grants@endocrinology.org.

Grants website

Obesity Management Symposium for the Endocrinologist - registration now open

Mon, 11 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

This is a one and half day interactive symposium that has been specifically designed for specialty registrars and consultants with an interest in the practicalities of obesity management. The symposium will be based around small, practical workshops with some didactic lectures from leaders in the field, including Dr Sadaf Farooqi and Professor John Wilding (who are also the organisers), Dr Nick Finer, Dr Jonathan Pinkney, Dr Andrew Johnson. The symposium will be held at the Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge on 24-25 September 2009, and will cover topics such as:

1. Setting up and running a specialist obesity clinic, an inpatient obesity service and bariatric surgery.

2. History, examination and investigation of the severely obese patient (interactive with patients).

3. Motivational interviewing, dietary and medical approaches to treatment.

The course has been restricted to 40 delegates in order to aid informal interaction between the delegates themselves and between the delegates and members of the faculty. Registration for this meeting is now open at the link below.

Undergraduate Achievement Award

Fri, 08 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Society for Endocrinology Undergraduate Achievement Awards have been established to encourage excellence in the study of endocrinology by undergraduate students. Departments are invited to submit applications to the Society for an award to outstanding undergraduates. The award will consist of a £300/yr grant to the department (for three years), and a certificate from the Society to the award winner.

Applications will only be considered if submitted by a paid up member of the Society for Endocrinology. Please note the Society will only accept applications submitted between the opening date of 18 June 2009 and closing date of 17 July 2009. Full eligibility criteria, an application form and a list of previous winners can be found at the website below.

SfE grants

A Masters in Endocrinology?

Fri, 08 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Society currently advertises a number of MSc courses on the web (please click on the link below for details). If you are currently aware of MSc courses that have strong elements of endocrinology within the syllabus, please contact Rachel at the Society (rachel.evans@endocrinology.org) in order for the Society to publicise them.

SfE careers website

Share your grant success!

Fri, 08 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Do you sit on a Fellowship-awarding panel? Have you been successful in gaining a Fellowship? Would you be prepared to help others gain a Fellowship?

The Society is aware that research Fellowships can be an invaluable tool to enable talented young scientists build independent careers, and is keen to support members wishing to obtain Fellowships. To this end, the Society intends to establish a virtual ?Fellowship panel’ comprising of established researchers and successful Fellowship holders. The aim of the panel would be to provide advice (via the Bristol office) to members of the Society just starting down the Fellowship road. It is anticipated that an expert database will be created enabling the Society to match queries with the experts.

So, if you would like to be part of this scheme, please contact Rachel at the Society (rachel.evans@endocrinology.org), with a short resume of your Fellowship experiences. As soon as we have a suitable number of experts, we will advertise the advice service to the membership.

MRC Programme grants

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The MRC Programme grants provide larger, longer term (five years) and renewable programme funding. They aim to help the medical science community to ?think bigger’. A programme is defined as a coordinated and coherent group of related projects, which may be to answer an inter-related set of questions across a broad scientific area. The expectation is that not all the questions will necessarily be answered within the tenure of the award. The programme may well be a continuation of current activity.

The programme grants are available to any UK-based researcher who can demonstrate that they will direct the proposed research and be actively engaged in carrying it through. The minimum academic qualification required is a graduate degree, although usually a PhD is required. For programme grants the principal investigator should have a substantial record of research.

Under the programme grant scheme you may request support for a period of five years, which can include: The salary of the principal investigator and co-investigators; Support for additional posts – research, technical or other consumables; Equipment; Travel costs; Data preservation, data sharing and dissemination costs. The closing date for the next round of proposals is 30 July 2009; full details can be found at the link below.

MRC website

New on-line applications for Society grants - now live!

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:00:00 GMT

We are pleased to announce a new on-line system for grant applications. Members can now complete grant applications using a secure on-line system. The system is initially being trialled for applications for the 'SFE Conferences and Overseas meetings’ grants for which the next deadline is 15 August 2009. Please click on the link below to apply for a travel grant on-line.

On-line grant applications

Samuel Leonard Simpson Fellowships in Endocrinology

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via rdfunding.org.uk. Applications are invited for the Samuel Leonard Simpson Fellowships in Endocrinology. These were established in honour of Dr Samuel Leonard Simpson, a pioneer of British endocrinology. Their purpose is to enable endocrinologists to learn new techniques and acquire new experiences, ideas and stimulation through travel and the exchange of ideas. Applications are considered from suitably qualified people in the UK wishing to make visits abroad, or from those abroad wishing to visit the UK. Up to £10,000 is available, which may be awarded to one or more candidates. The closing date for applications is 1 September 2009.

RCP website

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Joseph Hoet Research Award 2009

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Diabetes Pregnancy Study Group (DPSG, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) has announced the sixth Joseph Hoet Research Award (JHRA) to be presented at their annual meeting in Rome, Italy, 25-28 September 2009. The JHRA award is awarded for excellence in research in the field of diabetes and pregnancy (basic or clinical) and contribution to the advancement of knowledge in the field. The award consists of a commemorative plaque, a diploma certificate and Euro 5,000, sponsored by Novo Nordisk Pharma. The award is open to candidates not less than 50 years of age on 1 January 2009. The recipient of the prize will be expected to deliver the Joseph Hoet Lecture during the annual DPSG meeting. For further information about the awards, please contact Dr Per Ovesen at the Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark by email at Per.Ovesen@dadlnet.dk. The closing date for applications is 25 September 2009.

Life Sciences Research Foundation - Postdoctoral Research Fellowships

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Via rdfunding.org.uk. The Life Sciences Research Foundation (LSRF) aims to support postdoctoral fellowships in the life sciences. LSRF awards fellowships (3 years) will be awarded on a competitive basis to graduates of medical and graduate schools in the biological sciences holding M.D., Ph.D., D.V.M. or D.D.S. degrees. Full eligibility criteria and information on how to apply can be accessed at the website below. The deadline for applications is 1 October 2009.

LSRF website

IOF-Servier Young Investigator Research Grant

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The IOF-Servier Young Investigator Research Grant aims specifically at encouraging young scientists to carry out high quality research. The grant is generously supported by the Servier Research group in partnership with IOF, and awards Euro 40,000 towards original research of significant value and international relevance in the field of osteoporosis. Consistent with IOF's objectives, the project must contribute to ensuring that osteoporosis sufferers receive the best care possible. Further information and application forms are available at the website below. The closing date for applications is 15 September 2009.

IOF website

Attention subscribers of "UK Jobs Grants and Prizes" RSS feed

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Please note the "UK Jobs Grants and Prizes" RSS feed will soon expire. This feed will be replaced by two new RSS feeds: "UK Jobs" and "UK Grants and Prizes". Please subscribe to these new feeds at the links below.

Subscribe to "UK Jobs" RSS feed

Subscribe to "UK Grants and Prizes" RSS feed

British Thyroid Foundation Awards

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Evelyn Ashley Smith Award is offered by the British Thyroid Foundation (BTF) to enable a nurse with a specialist interest in thyroid disorders to provide improved care to patients with thyroid disorders. The award of £500, was made possible by the late Evelyn Ashley Smith, who was a member of the BTF for many years. The award will be offered to (a) support training needs including conference attendance, (b) support a specific project lasting one year, or (c) reward a piece of work already completed, but not yet published. Applicants must demonstrate that the activity supported by the award is aimed at enhancing care of patients with thyroid disorders.

The BTF Research Award is a 1-year award of up to £10,000 to enable medical researchers to supplement existing projects or to pump-prime existing research ideas. The successful project must be specifically directed to the study of thyroid disorders or an investigation into the basic understanding of thyroid function. Application forms are available from: BTF Nurse Award/BTF Research Award, 2nd Floor, 3 Devonshire Place, Harrogate, HG1 4AA, email: b.m.nevans@btf-thyroid.org or can be downloaded at the BTF website below. The closing date for receipt of applications is 1 July 2009 for the Nurse Award and 31 August 2009 for the Research Award.

BTF website

Society Prizes and Awards

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

The Society offers a number of awards and prizes throughout the year. Prizes are offered at the SfE BES meeting and Clinical Cases meetings for oral and poster presentations, and undergraduates can apply for the Undergraduate Achievement Award and Undergraduate Essay Prize. A Postgraduate Essay Prize is also available on an annual basis. For further details of all these awards and prizes and information on how to apply, please visit the website below.

Prizes and awards website