PRR Project

Summary

The Assistant Researcher (AR) in Integrative Structural Biology of Host-Pathogen Interactions will lead a research group focused on applying biophysical techniques to study the structure, dynamics, and interactions of pathogen-encoded proteins with host factors, mainly devoted to understanding how pathogens target and subvert host processes and immunity through intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs).This position entails experience in overseeing a diverse team of researchers and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to address critical questions in structural biology, molecular biophysics, microbiology, and infectious diseases, targeting the physicochemical intricacies of how pathogens exploit IDPs to assist infection.We seek a candidate with a solid scientific profile in structural biology and biophysics, encompassing expertise in Small-angle Scattering methods (e.g., SAXS) and magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and its applications to solving complex biological problems. The ideal candidate should have a demonstrated track record of success in research, including a substantial publication record in peer-reviewed journals, evidence of successful funding acquisition from competitive sources, and experience leading and supervising research teams, managing a laboratory, mentoring junior scientists, and supervising Ph.D. students.The selected candidate will be able to establish an independent research group focused on integrating NMR spectroscopy with small-angle scattering, computational modeling (e.g., Molecular Dynamics, AlphaFold-2), and other complementary techniques (e.g., X-ray). This interdisciplinary approach will enable the exploration of complex biological systems at the molecular level, with a particular emphasis on IDPs and their role in microbial pathogenesis. Furthermore, the candidate will be expected to engage in collaborative research within the MOSTMICRO-ITQB Unit, contributing to the unit´s overarching goals of unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying microbial life processes. By bridging molecular structural biology with infection biology, the AR will drive innovation and generate new insights into the chemical aspects of host-pathogen interactions, paving the way for developing novel therapeutic strategies and biotechnological applications.The ideal candidate will have a PhD in chemistry or a related area, with specialization in NMR, and possess a large experience conducting innovative research on intrinsically disordered proteins. The Portuguese DGES or a Portuguese Public Higher Education Institution must recognize the PhD degree. Additionally, candidates with an international profile will be highly valued, as they can bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and collaborations to enrich ITQB NOVA research endeavors and promote global scientific outreach and cooperation. Moreover, accreditation of research, such as habilitation, will be considered advantageous, demonstrating the candidate´s ability to effectively lead and supervise independent research projects.The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in consolidating the institution´s NMR spectroscopy expertise, enhancing its research capabilities, internationalization, outreach, and advancing knowledge in life sciences.The rationale behind this position lies in the strategic importance of NMR spectroscopy for the hiring institution. ITQB-NOVA hosts the largest high-field NMR facility in Portugal. As ITQB NOVA aims to maintain its position as a leader in bio-NMR research, appointing a AR  with expertise in this area is crucial. Moreover, the candidate will contribute to addressing relevant scientific questions relevant to the institute´s mission, such as the structure-function relationship of proteins involved in host-pathogen interactions and infectious diseases.Beyond NMR, the ideal candidate should possess profound expertise in Small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering techniques. They should also demonstrate the ability to develop a concise research and development plan with clearly outlined, original, and ambitious goals. Additionally, strong motivation to work in a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary environment is essential. The candidate should exhibit strong interpersonal skills to provide leadership and guidance to team members and effectively cooperate with internal and external colleagues. Fluency in English is indispensable, both in written and oral communication.In summary, the AR position represents an exciting opportunity to advance integrative structural biology research at ITQB NOVA, leveraging NMR spectroscopy, SAXS, computational modeling, and other biophysical techniques to address pressing questions in life sciences and microbiology. The selected candidate will be pivotal in strengthening the institution´s research capabilities, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and training the next generation of scientists.