PRR Project

Summary

RATIONALE FOR THE NEED TO HIRE THIS CHAIREnvironmental integrity is compromised by the discharge of a wide range of pollutants, such as greenhouse gases (GHG), endocrine disruptors, pharmaceuticals, microplastics, heavy metals and the so called “forever chemicals” (PFAS), resulting in adverse effects on human health, economic progress, and sustainability. Water, soil, and air represent fundamental resources vital to the sustenance of all living organisms. Their degradation poses a threat to the well-being of millions worldwide, as pollution has been identified as the primary environmental factor contributing to disease and premature mortality. Additionally, environmental pollution reduces potable water and arable land, promotes contamination of the food chains, thereby negatively affecting biodiversity. Consequently, environmental degradation hinders social and economic development, exacerbating poverty in numerous countries. In response to this urgent global issue, CEB proposes 3 research positions that address distinct strategies to tackle the complex problem of preserving/restoring environmental quality. In this scientific profile, CEB aims to invest in a position focused on fundamental research to deepen our knowledge regarding in-situ and ex-situ bio/technological processes to reduce environmental contamination (water, soil, waste/water, gases) and restore environmental quality. The research should also link the decontamination strategies to resource recovery and reuse (e.g., through metals recovery, biomethane production, chemicals). As such, new strategies for efficiently converting recalcitrant and bio-waste materials to liquid and gaseous bioenergy carriers, bulk chemicals or new catalysts will also be developed. Aligned with the Agenda 2030 SDG, Green Deal and with the EU Missions, this position will have a crucial role in protecting and restoring the environment, (i) directly by developing water, soil, waste/water and gas treatment processes, and (ii) indirectly through resource recovery and recycling, which fosters circularity. Furthermore, by converting biowastes/contaminants into bioenergy, it will decrease the dependency on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, advancing climate neutrality. During the past years, relevant research has been made on this topic at CEB/UMinho, that was mainly developed by researchers with non-permanent contracts. CEB/UMinho recognizes Environmental Protection and Restoration as a strategic area, that must be pushed through towards novel and more efficient approaches, and for that, the human capital in R&I must be strengthened with this permanent position.SCIENTIFIC PROFILE REQUIREDThe ideal candidate should have a PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering, Environmental Engineering or Biotechnology, with a background in environmental microbiology and microbial ecology. A strong proven track record, demonstrating high quality research in the fields of bioremediation and development/improvement of biotechnological processes, will be highly valued. Experience in doctoral supervision, management of research projects, and participation in outreach events will also be valued.TASKS TO BE ASSIGNED TO THE PROSPECTIVE RESEARCHERThe candidate to be recruited will be required to conduct original research focused on (i) understanding and engineering pure cultures, constructed consortia and microbiomes, and (ii) exploring possible synergies between biological and chemical processes, with the aim of designing novel bio/technological solutions for remediation of contaminated matrices with resource recovery. It is expected a solid contribution to the body of knowledge in this field, as assessed through scientific publications and/or patents. The selected 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 selected researcher will also be encouraged to establish and develop new collaborative networks with both national and international researchers, that can complement the ongoing efforts related to Environmental Protection and Restoration. In line with this duty, it is expected that the candidate will participate in international events. The chosen candidate will also be required to participate in CEB outreach events and will be given the liberty to propose and organize novel outreach events. Furthermore, the candidate will also be stimulated to participate in the governing of CEB, as an active member of its scientific council, and will be encouraged to engage in specialized governing committees.