PRR Project

Summary

Position: Assistant Researcher in Chemical and Biological Engineering, with emphasis on Bio-based self-assembled materials for Bioinspired sensing technologies; UCIBIO/i4HB Chair in Bio-based self-assembled materials for Bioinspired sensing technologies Job Description: We are seeking a motivated and skilled Assistant Researcher in Chemical and Biological Engineering, with emphasis on Bio-based self-assembled materials for Bioinspired sensing technologies; UCIBIO/i4HB Chair in Bio-based self-assembled materials for Bioinspired sensing technologies, to join our team at NOVA FCT and UCIBIO/i4HB. The ideal candidate will conduct pioneering research merging bioengineering, chemistry, and sensing technologies. Responsibilities include advancing scientific knowledge and creating innovative solutions in the field while promoting knowledge valorization. Responsibilities:Lead a research program focusing on the rational design of stimuli-responsive supramolecular and bioinspired materials, towards disruptive technologies in Bioinspired sensing technologies as artificial olfactionStrengthen research intersecting the fields of bio-based and sustainable materials with bioinspired sensing, namely artificial olfaction.Promote the intersection between biosensing technologies and the application of artificial intelligence tools.Supervise undergraduate and graduate students at master´s and PhD levels, along with young researchers and postdoctoral trainees, in bioengineering and biosensing research projects.Contribute to the academic community through dissemination and publication of research findings in reputable peer-reviewed scientific journals and conferences.Explore opportunities for securing external funding from national and international agencies and through collaborative projects with academic, clinical & industrial partners. Engage in technology transfer initiatives.Actively participate in the development and implementation of outreach and communication activities. Scientific Profile: The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:Ph.D. in Bioengineering or a related field with a strong focus on bio-based supramolecular soft ionomaterials and artificial olfaction.Strong track record in tailor-made bio-based materials combined with innovative sensing technologies, namely nanomechanical and optoelectronic methods.Professional experience in industry, encompassing research, leading and management roles in close collaboration with the in vitro diagnostics industry sector, and co-development projects with academia.Experience in providing mentoring to young researchers in academia and industry.Proficient in project management, fostering innovation, and facilitating technology transfer in collaborative endeavors involving academic, clinical, and industrial partners.Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in international and national environments. Rationale:The recruitment of UCIBIO/i4HB Chair in Bio-based self-assembled materials for Bioinspired sensing technologies aligns with NOVA FCT and UCIBIO strategic goals in advancing research and training in Bioengineering and Biosensing.Biosensing technologies, play a vital role in enhancing human health and daily activities. However, concerns arise regarding the waste generated and the environmental impact of the materials used as sensors and the point-of-care devices. The rational design of bio-based & stimuli-responsive supramolecular materials, addresses these issues by combining sustainably (self-assembled materials), biodegradability post-use (bio-based building blocks and friendly deep eutectic systems) and selectivity for sensing (chemical interactions can be predicted to increase target affinity & selectivity).Additionally, leveraging AI tools in conjunction with innovative non-invasive methods, as artificial olfaction, offers unique opportunities for precision agriculture & medicine, and advanced biomanufacturing. Artificial olfaction research is unique at UCIBIO at a national level, and given the breadth of applications, provides unique opportunities to meet UCIBIO strategic goals. The researcher will integrate UCIBIO´s research group in Bioengineering and engage with research groups in thematic lines TL2 (Diagnostics), TL3 (Safety in Human & Environmental Health) and TL4 (Nanobioengineering), while at the Associated Lab i4HB it will intensify and synergise the research efforts in Advanced Diagnostics, and in Human Health & Environmental safety.The selected candidate will enhance the reputation of both the Hiring and Host Institutions through their excellence in research and training. This research profile also cultivates partnerships with healthcare institutions and industry collaborators, leading scientific advancements, and impactful contributions in Bioengineering and Biosensing.