Seven Questions for a DDA-funded Researcher: Rasmus Kjøbsted

Rasmus Kjøbsted has just completed his Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen with a grant from the Danish Diabetes Academy.

Rasmus’ project title was ‘TBC1D4 in muscle insulin sensitization’.

We asked Rasmus to reflect on his time as a DDA-funded researcher with seven questions.

What was a highlight in your time as a DDA-funded researcher?

To meet and collaborate with many great and skilled people around the world. This has been essential for my research, and I am sure I will benefit from this in the future as well.

What was a low-point in your time as a DDA-funded researcher?

The COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, I had just finished a major invasive human study in January 2020 just before the breakout, and I only had to postpone most of my research in animals two-three months. I used the time during lockdown to develop my own research ideas, which I seek to investigate in my future research career.

Who were your most important collaborators?

Besides my amazing department colleagues, I would say Drs. Alexandra Chadt and Hadi Al-Hasani from the German Diabetes Center in Düsseldorf.

Which DDA event that you attended was your favourite, and why?

The DDA summer school at Gl. Avernæs. This is a fantastic event in beautiful surroundings with an impressive lineup of national and international speakers. Most importantly, the DDA summer school creates a unique possibility to interact with fellow students and senior researchers and I know that several new collaborative activities have been established during this event.

If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice before starting your research project, what would it be?

There is no such thing like a quick experiment or small project. Carefully consider what you spend your time on. A wise woman once told me that it is not about figuring out what to do – but rather what NOT to do.

What is next for you?

Currently, I am seeking funding to establish my own research group to tackle my research ideas on tissue-specific drug-delivery. Initially, my aim is to develop a transport-cargo-system that can deliver any drug of choice specifically to the muscle tissue. In the future, my hope is to develop a transport-cargo-system for each single tissue/organ in the human body.

Where do you hope to be in 10 years?

Wherever my research takes me.

We wish Rasmus all the best in his future career.