ICVS Researcher Sara Calafate Wins EMBO Installation Grant

ICVS researcher Sara Calafate has been awarded an EMBO Installation Grant, an accolade that supports early-stage group leaders in establishing their laboratories.

This grant, which provides 50,000 euros annually for five years, will allow Calafate to advance her innovative project titled “Unveiling the Impact of Sleep-Dependent Processes on Neuronal Homeostasis in AD.” Sara says that her work “aims to restore neuronal and microglia physiological function through sleep-dependent processes, and prevent aberrant neuronal responses and chronic inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we will explore the role of hypnogenic sleep factors such as the melanin concentrating hormone – MCH, in these processes. By intersecting the sleep biology and neuroinflammation fields, this project will contribute to the fundamental understanding of sleep processes and its involvement on neuronal homeostasis and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases where sleep disturbances emerge.”

As a recipient of this grant, Calafate is “beyond excited to be awarded an EMBO IG. This grant will, most of all, place me and consequently the ICVS, within a fantastic network of researchers. I’ll take advantage of this network to execute this project at the highest scientific level.”

Sara Calafate ICVS / EM

She will join a distinguished network of over 2,100 leading researchers within the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), which is dedicated to promoting excellence in life sciences across Europe and beyond.

EMBO’s mission encompasses supporting talented researchers at all career stages, fostering scientific information exchange, and cultivating environments conducive to high-quality research. Through courses, workshops, and publications, EMBO empowers young scientists to enhance their research, build international reputations, and ensure academic mobility.