PRR Project

Summary

Job Description: We are seeking an Assistant Researcher to develop bioprocesses using biomolecular approaches at UCIBIO/i4HB. The successful candidate will conduct innovative and multidisciplinary research focused on both top-down and bottom-up strategies to integrate knowledge obtained from in-silico (bioinformatics), and in-vitro (biochemical and biophysical methods) studies into the development and optimization of bioprocesses for the production of value-added products (e.g., PHA). Key tasks include isolation and identification of PHA-accumulating organisms, phylogenetic analysis of metabolic pathways and of the enzymes involved in PHA synthesis/depolymerization. In addition, the identification of relationships on microbial stress response mechanisms and bioprocess operational conditions will also be assessed. The candidate will contribute to scientific and technological advancements in biopolymer production.Responsibilities:Conduct in-silico and in-vitro studies to analyze microbial communities and isolate PHA-accumulating organisms under diverse stress conditions. Perform phylogenetic analysis of metabolic pathways and of enzymes involved in PHA synthesis/depolymerization, and identify novel PHA-accumulating organisms.Develop and optimize bioprocesses for the production of value-added products, guided by acquired fundamental knowledge (the outcome 1) coupled with sustainable principles.Facilitate collaboration, bridge interdisciplinary cooperation within the Research Unit, and foster academic-industry partnerships.Apply for national and international funding to support research projects and career development.Provide supervision and mentorship to students and undergraduate researchers involved in field-related research projects.Profile: The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:Ph.D. in Biochemistry or a related field, with a strong focus on biomolecular sciences and bioprocess engineering.Proven expertise in both bioinformatics and biochemical and biophysical studies, with strong focus on phylogenetic distribution, structural diversity and evolutionary divergences of microorganisms and proteins.Proven expertise in bioprocess development, encompassing bioreactor operation for monoculture and mixed culture cultivation and production of value-added products (e.g., PHA).Strong publication record in reputable scientific journals and proven collaboration skills with academic and industry.Rationale: PHA are biobased and fully biodegradable biopolymers, prized for their biocompatibility and varied physicochemical properties. Despite their growing global market value and popularity, high production costs hinder wider adoption. Nowadays cost-cutting strategies in PHA production include cultivating mixed microbial cultures under non-axenic conditions, utilizing industrial by-products or wastes as alternative feedstocks, and substituting freshwater by seawater in production processes. While these approaches effectively lower production costs, they also introduce complexity to bioprocesses from a biological standpoint. The lack of biomolecular understanding, particularly regarding the phylogenetic distribution of PHA-accumulators, the metabolic pathways and the enzymes involved in PHA synthesis/depolymerization, presents significant challenges. Also, the response mechanisms of different organisms for coping with stress and adaptation to operational conditions (e.g., feast/famine regimes, osmotic stress), are still poorly known. Consequently, addressing these gaps requires a comprehensive, cross-disciplinary strategy that integrates both in-silico (bioinformatics) and in-vitro (biochemical and biophysical methods) studies. By adopting this approach, which combines top-down and bottom-up methodologies, bioprocess development and biopolymer production can be optimized, leading to enhanced product development and ultimately influencing the Bioeconomy Sector in significant ways.The candidate will be instrumental in driving UCIBIO´s and i4HB´s strategic goals forward by pioneering innovative research initiatives, fostering collaboration across diverse research areas, and strengthening interdisciplinary teamwork, particularly between the thematic lines Biological & Biomolecular Interactions (TL1) and (Nano)Bioengineering (TL4). This integrative and multidisciplinary approach will not only enrich UCIBIO´s research landscape but also bring novel and complementary vision. Additionally, the candidate´s expertise will facilitate the translation of research findings into practical applications, fostering valuable partnerships between academia and industry. This underscores UCIBIO´s commitment to innovation and scientific leadership, positioning the institution as a frontrunner in bioprocess development using biomolecular approaches.