The Traweger Lab at the Paracelsus Medical University (PMU) Salzburg is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Traweger Lab. You will contribute to an IBW/EFRE-funded project investigating the role of matricellular proteins in tendon enthesis homeostasis and degeneration using various OMICs platforms, and develop self-organizing tissue substitutes for regenerative repair.

Read more about this job offer at this link.

It represents another step forward in strengthening the ties that drive our scientific community.

Check our map here.

The publication offers a complete review on rehabilitation strategies, the development of advanced therapies, and the integration of precision medicine — all aimed at improving treatment outcomes. This in-depth review covers topics ranging from the epidemiology and pathophysiology of Achilles tendinopathy to its diagnosis and the most promising treatments currently being studied.

This work is the result of a global, multidisciplinary collaboration involving researchers from Europe, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and Brazil. The study was led by Professors Britt Wildemann from the University Hospital of Jena in Germany, and Andreas Traweger from the Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg, Austria, both key members of TENET.

The Achilles heel, a weakness still prevalent in modern life

In Greek mythology, Achilles was said to be invincible, except for his heel. Today, that same tendon remains a vulnerable spot for many, particularly among active individuals. Achilles tendinopathy is a common injury that affects the tendon that connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus), leading to pain, difficulty performing daily tasks, and, in many cases, a reduced quality of life.

Achilles tendinopathy affects approximately 2 in every 1,000 individuals annually, with significantly higher incidence observed in athletic populations, highlighting its relevance both in clinical practice and in sports medicine. Contributing factors include ageing, genetic predisposition, overtraining, certain metabolic diseases, and the use of certain medications.

Treatment of Achilles tendinopathy remains a clinical challenge. Experts advocate for pain-guided rehabilitation using progressive loading exercises, considering surgery only as a last resort. Current research is focused on developing new therapies that not only alleviate symptoms but also regenerate tendon tissue, tailored to each patient through precision medicine.

This publication underscores the impact of international collaboration in advancing medical science and sheds new light on one of the most persistent injuries in both sports and everyday life.

More info: https://cost.eu/actions/CA22170/

Follow TENET for new and exciting developments in our Tendon Research Network!

Through COST Actions, ERC grantees have the opportunity to interact with leading researchers from Europe and beyond, regardless of their location. This opportunity is particularly valuable for young researchers who may have had fewer chances to network and are less familiar with European funding opportunities. It’s also beneficial for researchers from Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITC). This story of 3 ITC researchers from Portugal is one of collaboration, networking, and synergies between the ERC and the COST programme.

Manuela Gomes’ synergies in tendon regeneration

The ERC Consolidator Grant MagTendon – Magnetically Assisted Tissue Engineering Technologies for Tendon Regeneration, coordinated by Dr Manuela Gomes, explores new ways to help tendons heal. Researchers are using technologies such as 3D bioprinting with different materials and magnets to create systems that act like real tendons. Adding special cells to these systems gives them the right signals to help regenerate tendon tissue. It’s like giving the body a little instruction manual on how to repair its own tendons! “I feel very lucky to be coordinating an ERC project”, says Manuela.

“Networking in science is not only fundamental – it is the best part of the work, the part that gives us a sense of purpose”

Manuela Gomes, the Chair of the Action TENET

The main motivation for Dr Gomes to apply for the COST Action was to take advantage of the network developed over the years and to address the multidisciplinary challenges in advancing therapies for tendon injuries and diseases. In particular, she was inspired by two young researchers in her team, who highlighted the profound impact of collaborative projects on their professional development and the overall growth of the team.

Manuela is now leading the new COST Action TEndon Regeneration NETwork (TENET), demonstrating the dynamic synergy between the ERC and COST programmes. She sees the COST Action as a platform to address multidisciplinary challenges in tendon therapies. Current repair strategies mainly involve surgery, but the clinical outcome is poor, demanding alternative approaches. The main aim of TENET Action is to  create a scientific network of excellence integrating academics, research laboratories, clinicians, biotechnological companies, and regulatory bodies to foster the scientific and industrial capacity to develop, test and translate advanced regenerative therapies to promote tendon tissue regeneration and restoration of tendon function in order to improve patient treatments and outcomes.

Manuela’s move to TENET stems from a deep belief in the power of collaboration. In her words: “Networking in science is not only fundamental – it is the best part of the work, the part that gives us a sense of purpose”. She believes that researchers benefit not only on a scientific level, but also in terms of soft skills and personal development: “I strongly believe that we need support to develop basic science projects, while recognising the importance of sharing knowledge, perspectives and resources to take our research to a higher level and solve the constant demands and challenges of an ever-changing world,” she explains.

Dr Manuela Gomes is Professor at the University of Minho, the Chair of the TENET COST Action, ERC and EC Twinning Project Achilles grantee.

Read more at COST website