Marko Šestan: Pioneering Neuro-Immunology with ERC Startup Award

Dr. Marko Šestan is awarded prestigious ERC grant of EUR 2.000.000

Dr. Marko Šestan, a distinguished docent at the medical faculty, has recently been honored with a prestigious ERC startup award from the European Union. This grant, valued at EUR 2,000,000, represents not only a significant personal achievement but also a noteworthy advancement in the field of neuro-immunology. The funding will enable Dr. Šestan to establish his own research group, which aims to investigate the intricate relationships between the immune and the nervous systems.

Academic Journey

Dr. Šestan's academic journey has been marked by exceptional accomplishments. He completed his Ph.D. at our faculty, focusing on the modification of endocrine signaling in response to viral infections. His groundbreaking work not only contributed valuable knowledge to the scientific community but also set the foundation for his future research endeavors. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Šestan embarked on a postdoctoral position at the prestigious Champalimaud Center in Lisbon, Portugal. During this time, he conducted vital research published in the renowned journal Science, further establishing his reputation as a leading expert in the field.

Establishment of His Research Group in Rijeka

After three years of invaluable experience abroad, Dr. Šestan is now set to return to his roots in Rijeka, where he will launch his research group focusing on neuro-immune interactions. This new group presents a unique opportunity to explore innovative approaches in neuro-immunology, building upon his previous research and integrating cutting-edge methodologies. The ERC startup award not only provides financial support but also underscores the important role that Dr. Šestan will play in shaping the future of medical research in this area.

The establishment of this research group represents a significant milestone in the academic landscape of Rijeka, attracting attention from both national and international collaborators. Dr. Šestan's commitment to advancing our understanding of neuro-immunology promises to yield profound insights that can lead to breakthroughs in the treatment of various conditions related to the immune and nervous systems. In conclusion, Dr. Šestan’s achievements illustrate the importance of fostering innovative research environments and the potential that awaits in the ever-evolving fields of medical science.