PRR Project

Summary

Tissue repair and regeneration are critical for healing after injuries or surgeries, involving cell/tissue renewal and the restoration of tissue function. However, severe damage or chronic diseases can overwhelm the body´s healing capacity, requiring medical interventions. Major efforts are being made in Molecular Bioengineering to design advanced biomaterials that emulates natural tissue cues, thereby aiding cell growth and promoting tissue regeneration.The Infection, Immunity & Regeneration (IIR) program underscores regenerative medicine research, particularly in the field of precision medicine and biomaterial-based targeted therapies. This initiative is committed to the development of personalized treatments tailored to the unique needs of each patient, thereby transforming our approach to tissue restoration and healing. IIR core strategies involve the design of biomaterials for targeted cellular therapies, the engineering of scaffolds for tissue regeneration, and the advancement of drug delivery systems that facilitate tissue repair and functional recovery. These innovations are poised to address clinical needs that have yet to be met and to foster sustainable progress in healthcare.Responding to one of the main objectives of the FCT-Tenure Program, the strategy underlying the request for this position aims to provide professional stabilization of researchers and their lines of research by recruiting a Principal Investigator to lead research and innovation focused on molecular engineering of biomaterials. This leader will steer the creation of supramolecular biomaterials to aid in tissue repair and will work to refine the processes of molecular drug engineering, enhancing the efficacy of existing treatments to offer more efficient, affordable, and safer options to patients and healthcare systems. Moreover, this pivotal role includes spearheading the development of self-assembling biomaterials for state-of-the-art in vitro models, advancing beyond animal testing to a new era of drug discovery that is essential for future breakthroughs in personalised medicine. To maximize the outcomes of the research conducted, strong links with academic, clinical, and business partners should be established, therefore, both PI and IIR/i3S can benefit from the knowledge and expertise of other institutions in basic science, disease mechanisms, and nanotechnology research.The selected candidate must hold a PhD in Biomedical Engineering /Biotechnology, or related areas, for 12+ years, an excellent scientific track record, and is expected to pursue highly innovative research in the framework of the IIR Integrative Program. The selected candidate must be experienced in the supervision of PhD and Master students, as well as post-doctoral fellows, and willing to contribute to the i3S training mission, by supporting advanced training and participating in graduate and PhD programs. The selected candidate is also expected to carry out duties to which he/she has been elected or appointed within the i3S collegiate bodies. Engagement into the i3S educational program and outreach activities is also expected.