PRR Project

Summary

Scientific ProfileA PhD in biology, biochemistry, genetics, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, or a similar field would be required and a scientific and professional curriculum with a profile suited for the activity to be performed, namely the following qualifications and skills:Previous experience in vector-borne diseases and host-pathogen interactions;Experience in molecular and cellular biology, protein expression and purification, and handling of cell lines applied to infectious disease questions, such as virulence factors, drug resistance, transmission, or host highest risk factors for infection;Successful application of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics techniques, as well as bioinformatics, in cell biology, molecular epidemiology and genetics studies related to the determinants mentioned above;Creative problem-solving skills and experience related with low and middle-income countries related with infectious and neglected diseases in tropical areas;Excellent scientific and biomedical writing and good communications skills to deal with different cultures, populations, and multidisciplinary teams; RationaleThis scientific profile aligns and enables consolidation of a relevant research topic for the research groups Vector Borne Diseases (VBD) and Prevention, Infection and Molecular Epidemiology (PRIME), through the study of immune responses, vaccines, and innate host defence mechanisms against infections. Even though the primary focus is on parasitic infections, the research and relationship with the impact of microbiomes and viromes in both hosts and vectors on disease outcomes, are also relevant.Many genetic association studies lack a biological mechanism, which subsequently limits their applicability in novel disease-fighting approaches. By comprehending pathogen-host interactions, alterations in host cell mechanisms, and pathogen adaptations, we can potentially pave the way for the development of new tools to combat diseases.