PRR Project

Summary

Job description: Highly motivated and experienced Assistant Researcher with a strong background in biochemistry, molecular biology, and electrochemistry, with a specific focus on exploring extracellular electron transfer processes of electroactive organisms. This role involves leading innovative research aimed to elucidate the factors that affect and enhance electroactivity of electroactive bacteria and develop strategies to advance the practical application of bioelectrochemical systems to address contemporary societal challenges. Key responsibilities: 1) Design and conduct cutting-edge research towards the practical application of microorganisms towards the implementation of biotechnological processes, with an emphasis on bioelectrochemical systems. 2) Elucidate the factors that affect electroactivity, including those that affect biofilm formation in single and mixed electroactive cultures. 3) Lead and manage research projects including securing funding to conduct innovative research and ensure the establishment and sustainability of an interdisciplinary research team. 4) Mentor and supervise PhD and Master students, and postdoctoral researchers in solving real-world challenges through hands-on learning and project-based approaches. 5) Demonstrate an intramural and extramural collaborative posture integrating multidisciplinary teams to advance the solution of societal challenges. 6) Contribute to the scientific community through publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts, conference presentations, conference organization, involvement in scientific committees, and participation in review activities. 7) Teaching at a postgraduate level (PhD and Master). 8) Engage actively in citizen science initiatives and science outreach activities. Scientific Profile Required: 1) PhD in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. 2) Experience working with electroactive bacteria. 3) Proven experience, through publications, in exploring the molecular mechanisms that govern extracellular electron transfer of electroactive organisms, with a particular expertise in characterizing the key proteins involved in electron transfer pathways. 4) Skills in conducting genetic manipulation of electroactive bacteria. 5) Knowledge on setting and establishing bioelectrochemical systems within laboratory environment. 6) Track record of scientific publications in international journals, including as corresponding author. 7) Demonstrated strong leadership skills and the ability of effectively manage teams. 8) Aptitude to secure funding through competitive national and international calls. 9) Supervised and mentor students across all levels of university education including undergraduate, bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and post-doctoral level. 10) Possess experience in scientific leadership as demonstrated by nomination for management roles in scientific societies, international networks, or prominent editorial roles in the bioelectrochemistry field. Rationale for hiring: The hiring of an Assistant Researcher with a specialized focus on exploring extracellular electron transfer processes of electroactive bacteria is fundamental to develop interdisciplinary research to address societal challenges of the 21st century. The particular interest on exploring the key molecular factors that affect electroactivity in bioelectrochemical systems, will help in expanding the current research capacity of ITQB NOVA by contributing to the development of innovative strategies for the practical application of biotechnological processes. The unique expertise and skills of molecular biology, biochemistry, and electrochemistry of the candidate will enable to develop ground-breaking research and create ground-through discoveries to push forward the implementation of electroactive bacteria to solve several of the current societal challenges. The selection of a candidate with a demonstrated expertise in bioelectrochemistry, a proven track record in securing funding, leading and managing research projects, and in student training will be pivotal in fostering the sustainability and growth of the research institute. This candidate will play a crucial role in formulating strategies to advance Clean Environment initiatives and promote Human Health, key missions of ITQB NOVA.