PRR Project

Summary

Highly dynamic and motivated Assistant Researcher (AR) with a strong background in organometallic & inorganic chemistry, with specific focus on metallodrug development for cancer & microbial infections. The AR will reinforce the Organometallic Chemistry & Catalysis group , by leading innovative research projects focused on disclosing novel metal-based drugs capable of overcoming antimicrobial and anticancer drug resistance. Key Responsibilities: The AR will be responsible for developing, within the Organometallic Chemistry & Catalysis Laboratory , a research line focused on the development of novel metallodrugs for the treatment of cancer and microbial infections. In addition to excellence research, the AR should be proactive in:Designing and executing experiments to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the efficacy of metal-based compounds for their therapeutic potential.Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams of chemists, biologists, pharmacologists, and clinicians to advance research projects from conception to clinical application.Conducting literature reviews and stay abreast of recent advances in metallodrug design, metal coordination chemistry, and therapeutic strategies for cancer and microbial diseasesSecuring research funds and leading research projects.Building multidisciplinary collaborations at national and international levels.Facilitating the integration of new students (undergraduates, master, PhD) into the laboratory, providing them with the necessary guidance, training, and support to thrive.Fostering a collaborative and inclusive laboratory environment by promoting open communication, teamwork, and respect for diverse perspectives.Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and exchange of ideas among students and researchers from various backgrounds.Presenting research findings at scientific conferences, publishing results in peer-reviewed journals, and contributing to grant writing and project reports.Contributing to the intellectual property portfolio of the institution by identifying and protecting inventions, patents, and other commercializable technologies arising from the research activities of the group.Actively participating in citizen science & science outreach activities. Scientific Profile Required:PhD in Chemistry with a strong emphasis on organometallic & medicinal chemistry;Experience as a postdoctoral researcher;Demonstrated expertise in the design synthesis, and characterization of metal-based compounds (organometallic and inorganic) with experience in metallodrug development;Knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell biology techniques relevant to the evaluation of drug candidates in cellular & animal models of cancer & infectious diseases;Experience in studying physicochemical properties and conducting in vitro and in vivo biological assays to evaluate anticancer and antimicrobial compounds. In particular, experience in utilizing the zebrafish model;Knowledge in molecular docking;Experience in marine products for drug development will be valuable.Proven track record of research productivity, including publications in peer-reviewed journals;Proven experience in leadership and project management skills, with the ability to effectively supervise students;Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse scientific backgrounds and communicate research findings to both scientific and non-scientific audiences;Experience in technology transfer and intellectual property management;Fluency in English and Portuguese (spoken and written). Rationale for Hiring:The recruitment of an AR with expertise in metallodrug development for anticancer and antimicrobial infections will be essential for advancing research in the field of small bioactive molecules and anti-infective strategies. Thus, addressing the pressing global challenges posed by microbial pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacterial, is one of ITQB’´s strategic research lines.Organometallic/inorganic compounds represent a promising class of molecules with unique structural & electronic properties that can be tailored for specific biomedical applications. As part of our strategic research line, we recognize the critical role of organometallic/inorganic compounds in developing innovative therapeutic agents with enhanced efficacy and specificity against cancer and microbial infections. The Assistant Researcher will have the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of chemists, biologists, and biochemists within our institute. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, we can leverage diverse expertise and perspectives, and strengthen our competitiveness for grant funding, fostering long-term sustainability. Ultimately benefiting patients and society as a whole, by translating cutting-edge research into tangible solutions for human health.