PRR Project

Summary

RATIONALE FOR THE NEED TO HIRE THIS CHAIRClimate change is one of the biggest challenges facing our planet today. The unequivocal rise in anthropogenic activities has caused global warming, and without achieving net zero CO2 emissions, along with large reductions in other greenhouse gases (GHG), the global average temperature will keep increasing. This adverse effect will lead to more intense and extreme weather events, as we have already seen, impacting all levels of biodiversity, from organisms and biomes to societies and human economies, with irreparable consequences over time. Therefore, there is urgency for studies investigating how to mitigate climate change´s impact. Reducing fossil-based energy, chemicals, and materials consumption and replacing them with the sustainable use of bioenergy and bio-based chemicals and materials from biomass are among the main options to combat climate change and contribute to sustainable growth based on bio-economy. Biomass energy (e.g.Lignocellulose biomass (LCB)) is considered carbon-neutral and capable of mitigating the impacts of climate change. LCB is a renewable energy source that can replace fossil fuels, reducing dependence on carbon-intensive energy sources and GHG emissions. This enhances energy security by diversifying the energy sources and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. Using LCB as a feedstock for various industries, such as bioenergy, biorefining, and bio-based products, can reduce the pressure on natural forests for raw materials. This helps mitigate deforestation, which significantly contributes to climate change and biodiversity loss. Valorization of agro and forestry residues helps waste management, effectively reducing environmental pollution. Besides, LCB valorization offers economic opportunities by promoting the development of a bio-based economy. This can lead to job creation, technological innovation, and increased investment in rural areas, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth. Europe and the world are increasingly implementing policy and regulatory drivers to encourage the use of renewable resources and GHG reduction. The valorization of LCB aligns with these objectives and can help countries meet their climate targets and commitments under international agreements. In response to this urgent global issue, CEB proposes 3 research positions that address sustainable processes and production of value-added compounds. In this scientific profile, CEB aims to invest in a position focused on lignocellulosic biorefinery to deepen our knowledge regarding the sustainable and efficient processing of lignocellulose biomass for developing value-added chemicals and materials.SCIENTIFIC PROFILE REQUIREDThe ideal candidate should have a PhD in biotechnology, biology, chemical and biological engineering, science, or a related area, with a background in feedstocks processing technologies, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, bioprocesses, as well as in chemical and structural materials characterization, and bioproducts development. A good proven track record, demonstrating high-quality research in this field, will be valued. Experience in doctoral supervision, management of research projects, and participation in outreach events will be valued.TASKS TO BE ASSIGNED TO THE PROSPECTIVE RESEARCHERThe candidate to be recruited will be required to conduct original research focused on the pretreatment technologies and chemical characterization of LCB, and further processing for developing value-added chemicals and materials, aiming to develop innovative solutions contributing to the economic development of the region and the competitiveness in the global area. It is expected solid contribution to the body of knowledge in this field, as assessed through scientific publications and/or patents.The candidate will also be required to be actively involved in grant proposal development, by participating in large R&D projects submission and also to secure his/her research projects, as principal investigator. As such, project management will be a pivotal duty of this Chair.Recruiting undergraduate students will also be pivotal for the successful development of this Chair. As such, formal supervision duties, for both MSc and PhD students, will be required.The researcher will also be encouraged to establish and develop new collaborative networks with both national and international researchers, which can complement the ongoing research efforts related to lignocellulosic biorefinery. In line with this duty, it is expected that the candidate will participate in international events. The candidate will be required to participate in CEB outreach events and will have the liberty to propose/organize novel outreach events. The candidate will also be stimulated to participate in the governing of CEB, as an active member of its scientific council, and encouraged to engage in specialized governing committees.