PRR Project

Summary

Position:  Assistant Researcher in Chemical and Biological Engineering - Sustainable Processes for Polyhydroxyalkanoates Biopolymers ProductionJob Description: We are seeking for a Researcher expert in Sustainable Processes for Polyhydroxyalkanoates Biopolymers Production, to join the dynamic team at NOVA FCT/UCIBIO/i4HB. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting cutting-edge research in the areas of Sustainable Processes, with a specific focus on polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) biopolymers production. Key tasks include the development of biological processes for the production of PHA with mixed microbial cultures, both at laboratory and pilot scale, develop PHA extraction and purification processes, and promote the transfer of knowledge between Academia and the Industry. The researcher will be responsible for developing disruptive technologies that contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge on the area of PHA production with mixed microbial cultures and for exploring innovative microbial systems for more cost-effective and sustainable solutions in the field of PHA production.Responsibilities:Develop biological processes for the production of PHA using mixed microbial cultures.Apply sustainability principles to the developed bioprocesses and promote PHA production through resource recovery practices.Explore innovative microbial systems for increased sustainability of biological PHA production processes at lab and pilot scale.Develop green PHA extraction and purification processes.Contribute to the publication of research findings in reputable scientific journals.Establish national and international collaborations with interdisciplinary teams from Academia and Industry, integrating research networks and attracting external funding.Promote the transfer of knowledge between Academia and the Industry.Supervise graduate and post-graduate studies in the field of PHA production with mixed microbial cultures.Scientific Profile: The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:Ph.D. in the field of Chemical and Biological Engineering or a related field.Proven expertise on the development of sustainable and innovative processes for PHA production with mixed microbial cultures evidenced by publications in reputable scientific journals.Experience in national and international projects at laboratory and pilot scale for PHA production with mixed microbial cultures, being valorized projects in collaboration with the industry.Experience in exploring innovative microbial systems for increased sustainability of biological PHA production processes.Strong publication record demonstrating the researcher autonomy and scientific leadership.Excellent communication and collaboration skills, evidenced by participation in scientific networks and scientific dissemination activities.Experience in supervision of graduate and post-graduate studies.Rationale: The recruitment for this position aligns with the strategic goals of NOVA FCT/UCIBIO/i4HB to advance research excellence in Sustainable Processes for Polyhydroxyalkanoates Biopolymers Production. PHA are biodegradable biopolymers fundamental for society transition into a sustainable and bio-based economy. This transition has been hindered by the current high costs associated with biopolymers production, being essential to develop disruptive technologies capable of decreasing production costs and offering more sustainable approaches. New microbial systems, including the integration of phototrophic organisms into PHA production processes, opens the possibility of exploring alternative metabolic pathways, more cost-effective due to the harnessing of sunlight energy and higher carbon recovery yield, resulting in new biotechnological solutions for the growing demand of bio-based polymers. This research position will establish a new applied-oriented research line within UCIBIO and Associate Laboratory i4HB, broadening the Unit’s scientific scope while fully aligning with the Thematic Lines TL4 of UCIBIO  (Bioengineering) and i4HB (Bioresources Valorization and Bioproducts Production) which promote knowledge translation into impactful bioprocesses. Innovative technologies with promising applications in the materials field, food and packaging industry will be expected, contributing to more sustainable consumption practices (SDG 6, 12) and industrial innovation (SDG 9). The successful candidate will establish collaborations with external teams and integrate leading edge research projects contributing to the scientific innovation capacity of the institution. Also, the hired researcher will foster the collaboration between Academia and Industry, transferring applied knowledge into market-oriented applications, and identifying new applied research lines. This research position will also bring forefront training to young researchers of FCT NOVA/UCIBO in sustainable processes for PHA production.