PRR Project

Summary

Job description: We are seeking an experienced, innovative, and highly motivated Assistant Researcher to integrate the Research Unit “GREEN-IT Bioresources for Sustainability”. The candidate will explore the molecular mechanisms of abiotic stress plant responses combined with a component of promotion and dissemination to the academic and non-academic community. The selected candidate will play a dominant role in tasks such as: 1) Carrying out scientific research activities in plant physiology, biochemistry, and biology areas; 2) Attracting external funding and coordinating national and international projects; 3) Active role in boosting national and international collaborations; 4) Training researchers at MSc, PhD and Post-doc levels; 5) Participating in the institute´s academic and management bodies; 6) Actively participating in science dissemination and outreach activities, particularly with schools; 7) Strengthening the liaison between ITQB NOVA and the Oeiras municipality in areas related to science, education, and internationalization. Scientific Profile Required: 1) PhD degree in Biology or similar, with a focus in Plant Molecular Biology; 2) Proven extensive post-doctoral research experience in plant-environment interactions with expertise in different crops, with a focus on woody plants and cereals; 3) Expertise in plant physiology and eco-physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology 4) Proven experience in the design, implementation, and monitoring of experimental trials under controlled, semi-controlled, and field conditions; 5) Experience in the preparation of research proposals for national and international calls; 6) Participation in projects, including coordination and management; 7) Experience in (co-)supervision of MSc and PhD students; 8) Organization skills and experience in the management of plant research facilities; 9) Collaborative spirit and excellent interpersonal relations (proven by existing collaborative projects); 10) Pro-activity in the implementation of science projects targeting the common citizens and schools, namely including: a) Good connections with teacher training centers for alignment of educational targets and strategies; b) Experience in teachers’ training and the development of school-targeted educational tools; c) Experience as scientific coordinator of science clubs in schools; d) Capacity to integrate multidisciplinary teams; e) Critical thinking; f) Good communication skills and experience in science dissemination and communication activities. 11) Fluency in English and Portuguese (written and spoken). Rationale for Hiring: The candidate will be integrated into the Plant Division of ITQB NOVA, in the R&D Research Unit Green-it Bioresources for Sustainability, and the LS4Future Associated Laboratory, complementing existing strengths and contributing to the strategic goals. The hiring of an Assistant Researcher with a specialized focus on Plant-Environment Interactions is critical to advance fundamental knowledge of the molecular mechanisms regulating relevant plant traits in the context of climate change. This knowledge is of utmost importance to harness the potential of genetic diversity to shape new resilient varieties that are more adapted, for instance, to water-limited conditions. In addition, the combination of skills in plant science and in science education at school and citizen levels is key to addressing the growing need to bring science closer to society, contributing not only to scientific literacy in general but also to minimizing the already identified issue of "plant blindness". ITQB NOVA, being an institution with a strong presence in plant sciences, must combat this problem by raising awareness of the importance of plants and plant-based research for humankind. This is particularly important to address the urgent need for sustainable production of food/feed and bioresources, supporting a bio-based economy and caring for the environment. The selection of a candidate with a track record in securing funding and leading research and educational projects will ensure the sustainability and growth of our research/dissemination initiatives. This role is essential for driving forward our mission to contribute to more enlightened and participative citizens.