PRR Project

Summary

The Researcher will be integrated in the Applied Research Institute (i2A) and the SPRINT research unit, conducting applied research, contributing to the scientific community, and actively engaging in collaborative projects within the institution and with other partner institutions, all aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.The candidate focus should be in 5 emerging areas or domains, namely: 1) Innovative Physical Exercise Protocols, incorporating randomized controlled trial approaches and other study designs; 2) Promotion and Adherence Strategies to Physical Exercise Programs; 3) Active, Healthy, and Sustainable Aging; 4) Relationships between Physical Activity, Health, and Disease; 5) New Technologies for the Promotion of Sustainable Physical Activity and Well-Being.The specific tasks are divided in 6 areas: 1) Research Design and Execution – Develop and execute research projects related to physical activity, health promotion, and innovative exercise interventions for special populations. The work will also involve the design of studies that investigate the impact of physical activity on biopsychosocial and health outcomes, with a focus on diverse groups such as ageing population, individuals with chronic conditions, and other special populations; 2) Data Collection and Analysis – Both within the i2A-IPC ongoing projects and in new ones, the researcher is expected to be able to conduct and oversee the collection of data through various methodologies, including intervention studies, physical assessments and surveys. The candidate should also be able to conduct statistical analyses to interpret research findings and contribute to the dissemination of results through publications and presentations. 3) Community Engagement – Lead research projects that can establish community intervention programs, in collaboration with local communities to develop and implement sustainable strategies for promoting physical activity and healthy living. Contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions aimed at promoting active and sustainable communities. 4) Grant Writing and Funding Acquisition – Participate in the design and submission of research proposals to secure external funding for ongoing and new projects. Actively seek opportunities for research grants and partnerships to enhance the IPC and Sprint research unit’s capacity. 5) Teaching and Mentorship - Participate in educational activities, including teaching relevant courses or workshops. The candidate should also take on some curricular units in undergraduate or graduate courses, such as physical activity and health, or prescription of exercise. They should also mentor undergraduate and graduate students and contribute to their academic and research development. 6) Dissemination of Research - Publish research findings in reputable scientific journals and present at conferences, to contribute to the academic discourse in the field. The successful candidate should also engage in knowledge translation activities to ensure that research findings are accessible and transferred to the society.The Scientific Profile of the successful candidate should be based in the field of Sport Sciences, with a strong experience in the implementation of intervention programs. The candidates should hold a PhD in Sport Sciences or similar, preferably with a specialization in Physical Activity and health, Exercise Science, or a related field. A demonstrated experience in designing and conducting research studies related to physical activity and health is required, with proven experience in community-based research and engagement. The candidates must have an appropriate track record of publishing in relevant peer-reviewed journals. They must demonstrate the ability to secure external funding through grant writing, being valued experience in securing grants.Finaly, experience in teaching and mentorship graduate students is a differentiating factor.The hiring of a researcher for this specific area is justified by the need to integrate, experts capable of developing research focused in sustainable physical activity and health. The selected candidate will be integrated within the i2A and in the SPRINT research centre, particularly in the physical activity and health research line. This will have a positive impact on community health and promote a culture of physical activity and well-being. The interdisciplinary nature of the role aligns with IPC’s commitment to multilevel approaches that integrate research, community engagement, and education.