PRR Project

Summary

iNOVA4Health FCT Research Unit is seeking a highly qualified and motivated assistant researcher with a strong background in neurometabolism in human health. The successful candidate will lead innovative research projects focused on rodent models, human tissues and humans to deepen our comprehension of the pathophysiological mechanisms linking the nervous and the endocrine system underlying the development of metabolic disorders, as obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and to develop new personalized therapeutics for these diseases The researcher will contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and the development of innovative solutions in the field.Key Responsibilities:1) Conduct Innovative Research: Lead and conduct cutting-edge research projects in neurometabolism in health and disease, focusing on the unveiling of new pathophysiological mechanisms underlying metabolic diseases and on the development of innovative personalized therapeutics. Develop and execute experimental protocols and models to study the link between the neuro and endocrine systems in metabolic diseases.2) Neural, Metabolic and Cardiorespiratory Expertise: Apply advanced techniques in neuronal, metabolic and cardiorespiratory evaluation to investigate cellular, organ and whole-body responses and interactions in neurometabolism.3) Rodent Model Utilization: Utilize rodents as a model organism for in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies of neurometabolism in health and disease. Perform genetic, pharmacological, bioelectronic and surgical manipulations to study neurometabolism.4) Human tissue Utilization: Use human tissue explants to study organ-organ communication and cellular processes involved in neurometabolism. Work on tissue incubation and analysis and primary cells cultivation and differentiation.5) Human clinical studies: Collaborate in the implementation, management, and analysis of data in clinical studies in the field of neurometabolism.6) Collaborative Research: Collaborate with internal teams and external partners, including interdisciplinary groups, to advance research projects. Participate in joint ventures that bridge the gap between basic science and translational and clinical medicine.7) Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze experimental data using advanced statistical methods. Prepare and present research findings at internal meetings and scientific conferences. Contribute to the writing of research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals.8) Mentorship and Supervision: Mentor and supervise junior researchers and students. Provide guidance in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.9) Publishing and Funding: Contribute to publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and to the development of research proposals and funding applications.10) Contributions to the research community and the broader society: Contribute to both research community and society, through various activities including involvement in institutional commities, outreach, engagement, editing and reviewing activities.1) PhD in Life Sciences, as Biomedicine or a related field.2) Minimum of 5 years postdoctoral experience in neurometabolic field.3) Demonstrated experience with rodent models and in the genetic, pharmacological, bioelectronic and surgical manipulations to study neurometabolism.4) Proficiency in neuronal, metabolic and cardiovascular assessment in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro.5) Publication record in physiology and or related disciplines.6) Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.7) Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.8) Strong communication and interpersonal skills.Rationale for Hiring:Despite extensive healthcare efforts, managing obesity and its associated conditions remains challenging, with limited treatment predictability and temporary success from lifestyle changes. Hence, there´s an urgent need to uncover new pathophysiological mechanisms to develop more effective, personalized therapeutic interventions. Hiring an Assistant Researcher with expertise in this field is vital for iNOVA4Health to maintain competitiveness and innovation globally. This role will link basic science with translational and clinical medicine, striving to uncover personalized, adaptable therapeutics for metabolic diseases. The candidate´s contributions will play a pivotal role in developing next-generation treatments, offering substantial advancements in patient care.By using a cell to humans’ experimental approach, and a multidisciplinary team, the person to be hired will push the boundaries of current knowledge and contribute to the development of cutting-edge therapies. This strategic hire will strengthen our research capacity, enable new collaborative projects, secure research funding, and enhance our institutional reputation as a leader in metabolic diseases field.