PRR Project

Summary

Job Description:We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in Pharmaceutical  Sciences, Biochemistry or a related field, with skills that play a pivotal role in advancing our institution´s academic classes, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality, relevance, and effectiveness, and providing students with an exceptional educational experience. The candidate must have thorough knowledge of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry to train undergraduate and graduate students.In research, the candidate will improve the scientific knowledge in the inflammatory diseases, CKD and experience in clinical analysis, molecular and genetic studies, to identify early biomarkers of renal tubular and glomerular injuries, endothelial dysfunction and inflammation, and biomarkers of disease progression. This position can contribute to CKD to a better outcome of patients through the identification and validation of new tools for early diagnosis and worsening of the disease; and, contribute to find new strategies to improve health outcomes globally. Scientific profile:A strong background in biochemistry, molecular, genetic and clinical analysis, focused on chronic inflammation. The candidate should have documented expertise in conducting biochemical, histological, molecular and genetic studies, using in vitro studies in cell cultures, and in in vivo studies using animal models and humans. Also, should have experience in teaching theoretical and laboratory classes; a publication record on the scientific area of this application; experience in supervising pre- and postgraduate students; strong communication skills, with proficiency in public engagement and science communication, including outreach activities, promoting interdisciplinary collaborations and societal engagement. Rationale:The recruitment of an Assistant Professor in Biochemistry with the aim of enhancing research in Biochemistry in the different areas in which Biochemistry constitutes an added value for the Biochemistry Laboratory. Requires participation in the development and review of biochemistry curricula, updating content that reflects recent scientific and technological advances to ensure that academic programs meet standards of quality and relevance.The research in "Drug Targets and Biomarkers" at FFUP/UCIBIO aligns with the organization´s strategy of benefiting patients and healthcare. It falls under UCIBIO´s "Disease Pathways and Biomarkers" initiative. The focus on identifying biomarkers and discovering new therapeutic targets/drugs is part of the multidisciplinary approach adopted by UCIBIO. The candidate should have a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry or a related field, with a specialty in Biochemistry or a closely related discipline.Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global epidemic, with increasing prevalence worldwide, despite advancements in management and dialysis techniques. Hospitalization and mortality rates for CKD remain high, with many patients dying with cardiovascular disease (CVD) before kidney replacement treatment. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) presents a significant public health challenge due to the growing number of patients on dialysis. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors are prevalent in ESRD patients, but additional factors related to renal function decline, such as anemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and mineral disorders, contribute to cardiovascular complications. Inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 are associated with higher cardiovascular risk and mortality in CKD patients, establishing CKD as an independent CVD risk factor.Biomarkers of kidney function lack specificity and do not identify the cause of renal dysfunction. Reliable biomarkers for early kidney injury and disease progression and predictive markers for morbidity and mortality, are needed to improve diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of kidney and cardiovascular disorders. Early and effective CKD therapies can be enhanced by identifying sensitive, specific, and reliable biomarkers for diagnosis/prognosis and consistent markers for CVD risk, especially in ESKD patients. Further research into CKD pathophysiology, novel therapeutic targets, and innovative treatments is crucial for advancing CKD care and reducing associated morbidity and mortality.