PRR Project

Summary

Job Description: We are seeking a candidate with a strong track-record on the study of plant-microbe interactions from a fundamental perspective (signaling and recruitment, limits and conditions, mechanisms involved), and with proven capacity for knowledge transfer and value creation. The researcher to recruit must master: 1) the biology of plant-microbe interactions, including the epigenetics of the interaction and the condition, at soil and plant level, 2) omics technologies to identify and characterize microbiota and their functions, 3) design of formulations, use of additives to improve performance, and knowledge of application methodologies, 4) ensure quality of the inoculant performance in different edapho-climatic conditions, as well as biosafety, 5) understand market requirements (product optimization, tailor-made design, product contextualization), 6) establish collaborations within ITQB NOVA, Green-it R&D Unit and LS4Future Asscociated Laboratory, and outside (at National and International level), 7) teaching and supervising students, at MSc and PhD levels, 8) active participation in science dissemination. Scientific Profile: We seek a candidate with proven expertise in: 1) the biology of plant-bacteria interactions from the rhizosphere to seed level 2) epigenetic regulation of plant-microbe interactions and inheritance capacity 3) designing the best consortia to address stakeholder requirements 4) bacterial formulations for diverse mechanisms of application 5) biosafety of the inoculant assessed in lab and field conditions 6) industrial vision, and experience of dealing with stakeholders 7) value-creation (conducting greenhouse and field trials, proof of concept, pre-industrial scale tests) 8) establishing networks with national and international research groups 9) participate in policy-making strategies 10) capacity to attract funds through national or international calls, and contracts with the private sector 11) leading independent research 12) supervising students (at MSc and/or PhD level) Rationale As part of an integrated and applied vision within the Plant Sciences Division, ITQB NOVA and Green-it R&D Unit, we aim to support a strategic laboratory focusing on the study and knowledge-transfer in the topic of plant-microorganism beneficial interactions. This field aligns with the emerging research targets of leading research centers and needs to be directed towards application. Moreover, in line with Green-it Mission and Objectives, the skills and expertise of the candidate, demonstrated by his/her CV, must be aligned with the Sustainable Development Strategies of the European Union and the UN Agenda 2030 for microbiota study and application. Furthermore, the candidate to select should master fundamental mechanisms, be innovative and capable to analyze and integrate multiscale data, ensuring the publication of scientific papers on key aspects of the plant-microorganism interactions. Considering that the key research areas of Green-it are soil health, plant protection, and production of plant-based products, the research involving the microorganisms that can healp in plant performance, stress adaptation and improved soil quality, are of particular relevance. Additionally, the Green-it team envisages to strengthen collaborations with the private sector and plant-microbe interactions are an increasingly hot topic for this endeavour.