The Academy of Finland grants funding to research fellows
The Academy of Finland’s Research Council for Biosciences and Environment has granted funding to 27 research fellows, among them Hector Martinez-Seara Monne from the Department of Physics at Tampere University of Technology (TUT).Martinez-Seara Monne’s research aims to shed light on the molecular structure of glycocalyx and promote the development of related medical and pharmacological applications. Glycocalyx is a gelatinous substance made up of polysaccharides, proteins and other macromolecules that surrounds cells. This coating of macromolecules protects the cell and helps it adhere to surfaces. A number of disease processes are known that involve damage to the glycocalyx, but its molecular structure is still poorly understood.
The applications submitted in response to the Academy’s 2011 call were evaluated by nine international panels. The decisions to fund research fellowships are primarily based on the quality of the research plan and the scientific achievements of the applicants.
The three-year terms of the research fellows will begin in September.