Muriel Mari
About
Enthusiastic Cell Biology and Electron Microscopy Scientist, equipped with a profound skill set and excellent communication skills. I excel in teamwork and collaboration, consistently contributing to successful group projects. Notably, I have made collaboration with renowned groups a cornerstone of my career, demonstrating a commitment to forging strong partnerships and driving collective success. As a distinguished scholar in the field of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, I embarked on my academic journey at the University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, FR. Where I successfully earned my PhD in Cell Biology and Physiology with summa cum laude in 2002, conducting groundbreaking research under the guidance of Dr. Y. Lemarchand-Brustel and Dr. M. Cormont, focusing on small GTPases effectors' role in glucose cell uptake in diabetes and obesity. In pursuit of excellence, I expanded my horizons by joining Prof. D. James' laboratory at the Garvan Institute in Sydney, AU, as an INSERM/NHMRC postdoctoral fellow in 2002. Here, I delved into the intricate world of membrane association, unraveling the mysteries of the SNARE protein in glucose trafficking and diabetes. Driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and challenges, I embarked on a new adventure in 2003. I became a Marie-Curie postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Cell Biology at the University Medical Center Utrecht, NL, under the mentorship of Prof. H. Geuze. My mission: to master advanced electron microscopy methods while investigating the fascinating intricacies of intracellular trafficking, particularly the journey of lysosomal enzyme receptors. In 2006, I joined forces with Prof. F. Reggiori in Utrecht, continuing my exploration of cellular mechanisms. This time, I chose yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as my model system to probe the molecular mysteries of autophagy. My dedication and contributions to the field garnered appreciation. Fast forward to 2015, my exceptional journey led me as an Assistant Professor to the Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systems at the University Medical Center Groningen, NL. Here, I honed my expertise in various facets of intracellular trafficking, with a keen focus on autophagy, employing cutting-edge ultrastructural electron microscopy techniques. Since June 2022, I have assumed the role of an Associate Professor at the Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK. My current research delves into the intricate realm of autophagy, as well as other intracellular trafficking pathways, spanning yeast, mammalian cells, and tissues. My toolkit includes high-pressure freezing/freeze substitution, electron microscopy, immuno-electron microscopy, electron tomography, and correlative light and electron microscopy. Throughout my exceptional journey, I have honed my excellent teaching skills, a testament to my unwavering commitment to education. My dedication is underscored by the attainment of several prestigious teaching certificates, further solidifying my reputation as an outstanding teacher and course coordinator. Outside of work, I am passionate about exploring the world and immersing myself in the rich cultures of its inhabitants. I have a deep love for scuba diving and various other water sports, finding relaxation and balance through practices like Pilates and Ashtanga Yoga. Moreover, I cherish the company of friends and embrace the joy of life in every moment spent together.