PRR Project

Summary

Highly motivated and experienced Assistant Researcher with a strong background in cell biology, microbiology, and advanced microscopy techniques, with a specific focus on studying intracellular microbial infections and host-pathogen interactions. This role involves leading innovative research projects aimed at understanding the biology of Staphylococcus aureus and other infectious agents, developing new microscopy methods, and exploring potential therapeutic targets. Key Responsibilities: 1) Design and conduct cutting-edge research on microbial infection biology, with an emphasis on Staphylococcus aureus; 2) Develop and apply advanced microscopy techniques for the study of bacterial-host interactions. 3) Lead and manage research projects, including securing funding, project planning, execution, and dissemination of results. 4) Mentor and supervise PhD and Master students, and postdoctoral researchers fostering a productive and inclusive lab environment. 5) Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams within and outside the institution. 6) Contribute to the scientific community through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, conference organization and participation in scientific committees. 7) Manage microscopy research infrastructures with a focus on bacterial imaging. 8) Teach at a postgraduate level (master and PhD); 9) Actively participate in citizen science and science outreach activities. Scientific Profile Required: 1) PhD in Cell Biology, Microbiology, or a related field; 2) Experience as independent group leader; 3) Proven experience, through publications, in microbial cell biology, microbial infection biology, preferably with a focus on Staphylococcus aureus, and microscopy development; 4) Track record of scientific publications in international journals, including publications as first author and/or corresponding author; 5) Demonstrated ability to secure national and international competitive research funding; 6) Experience with advanced microscopy techniques and quantitative imaging analysis; 7) Strong leadership, mentorship, and collaborative skills; 8) Excellent communication and organizational abilities; 9) National and international teaching experience; 9) Fluency in English and Portuguese (spoken and written). Rationale for Hiring: The hiring of an Assistant Researcher with a specialized focus on microbial infection biology is critical to advance our understanding of infectious diseases. The particular focus on infections caused by antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus will help to expand the existing research capacity by providing new disease models and help establish new methodologies thus increasing the collaboration potential. The candidate´s unique combination of skills in cell biology, microbiology, and advanced microscopy will enable breakthrough discoveries in the mechanisms of bacterial infections and host responses as well as help create a platform to explore new antimicrobial solutions arising from, for example, ITQB NOVA’s chemistry department. Further, a candidate with the described blend of extensive expertise in biology and microscopy will be instrumental for driving internal research infrastructures, such as the Bacterial Imaging Cluster, and promote ITQB NOVA as powerhouse in bacterial centric imaging advances. The selection of a candidate with a proven track record in securing funding and leading research projects will ensure the sustainability and growth of our research initiatives. This role is essential for driving forward our mission to contribute to global health security, thus reducing poverty and inequalities.