Gerrit Altmeppen

EDUCATION

College / University

University of Heidelberg

Highest Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major Subjects

Biochemistry

altmeppen

Country

Germany

Lab Experience

Mouse models, cell/ tissue culture (generation and culture of primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts and culture of NIH 3T3 cells, fetal thymus organ culture), transfection of mammalian cells, flow cytometry and cell sorting, basic techniques in molecular biology (Western blot, PCR, in situ hybridization), genetic engineering and genome editing, cloning and preparation of DNA, protein purification, immunoprecipitation, analytical techniques such as NMR and HPLC/MS.

Projects / Research

  • 01/2016 – 03/2016: “Methylation optimization for sphingolipids using TMSD and analysis using MS”, Prof. Brügger, Biochemistry Center Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg
  • 04/2016 – 09/2016: “In vitro reconstitution of FoxN1 in the nude mouse thymus”, Prof. Rodewald, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Heidelberg

Scholarships / Awards

2016 – 2017: Stipend by the International Max Planck Research School

SCIENTIFIC INTERESTS AND GOALS

I am strongly interested in immunology and the haematopoetic system. Many questions, from differentiation to molecular regulation, are still open. Some researchers, for example, challenge the conventional model of haematopoesis. I am convinced that research on a molecular base will uncover the real progress of differentiation. Discoveries in the field of molecular differentiation regulation might also help to find new strategies in cancer research. Therefore it is important to be open-minded and understand both the biochemical interactions of macromolecules and metabolites and the molecular and cellular observable reactions of these processes. In Göttingen I want to expand my knowledge on many different topics, particularly microscopy, to see beyond my own nose. Furthermore, I am interested in NMR, mass spectrometry and modern microscopy as they provide powerful equipment for future looks into the world of biomolecules. Together with new insights in molecular biology and bioinformatics, this background will be powerful to solve modern questions in both basic and medical research.