Th17 signaling and alveolar macrophage polarization in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Purpose and goal

The VINNMER-Marie Curie grant in the highly experienced researcher category by the Swedish Innovation Council-VINNOVA was an excellent opportunity for me to enter and integrate into the Swedish academic system. The grant also enabled me to follow a structured career development path along with the scientific projects and skill development. During the grant period, I executed the main scientific project/s and also evolved several projects together with national and international collaborators. I am also pursuing the career path to attain ‘‘Docentship’’ in the research track at KI.

Expected results and effects

Scientific projects involving macrophage polarization, lung and systemic cytokine signature among long term smokers, in silico modelling of diseased lung, and toxicological assessments of electronic cigarettes have been performed. Teaching activities, supervision, pedagogic courses, conferences, workshops and technical courses also helped for skill and knowledge development. Publications of research articles in peer reviewed journals have been made. Networking with scientists nationally and internationally resulted in several successful grant applications.

Planned approach and implementation

Utilizing the scope offered by The VINNMER-Marie Curie grant, I have been able to integrate within the Swedish Academic system and also understand the professional and social culture. The framework of structured career development path along with the scientific projects and support from VINNOVA as a funding organization together with Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinksa Institutet as host helped me to explore, communicate and network. The immediate aim of attaining ‘‘Docentship’’ and activities directed to achieve that are in progress.