Dr. Jan Van Deursen has greatly impacted ageing research and has worked to make it easier for researchers to treat people of different ages. His groundbreaking research on senescent cells, or cells that have lost their original function, has changed how scientists look at ageing. Today, there are more ways to cure ageing problems, and Dr Van Deursen has done this with groundbreaking new techniques.
In addition to being a world-renowned researcher, Jan has founded a biotechnology company based on his anti-ageing research. This company attracted the attention of big investors like Jeff Bezos, and his research has led to two spin-off companies – one of which has been funded by Jeff Bezos, the world’s richest man. Jan is passionate about translating scientific discoveries into useful medicines in both cases.
Dr Van Deursen’s discovery has prompted several biotech companies to invest in his technology. One company, Unity Biotechnology, is focused on developing therapeutics that can effectively remove senescent cells. This company is gearing up for clinical trials in osteoarthritis and glaucoma. The research is already benefiting millions of people. If successful, Jan Van Deursen could be one of the world’s most successful biotech entrepreneurs.
After earning his PhD from the University of Nijmegen, Dr. van Deursen joined St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1999, he established his curiosity-driven research program at the Mayo Clinic and served as the head of the transgenic and gene knockout core facility until 2020. He later became the chair of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department at the Mayo Clinic.
The University of Texas has contacted many of his former lab employees. A representative sent a follow-up message to van Deursen’s former employees, explaining that he was no longer needed at the University. Despite the sour circumstances, Van Deursen has earned numerous honours at Mayo Clinic and received millions of dollars in National Institutes of Health grants. He has worked with many prominent scientists, including Stephen Hawking and Dr Paul McGovern.
A successful career path is paved with funding. The Mayo Clinic research model helps accelerate discovery and answer unmet patient needs through collaboration among scientists. Jan Van Deursen has helped many early-career researchers become successful. By mentoring them, he has helped Dr Childs to become a physician-scientist and a highly regarded scientist. If you want to be part of this inspiring team, you should look no further than Jan Van Deursen, PhD.
