PRR Project

Summary

LAQV-REQUIMTE seeks a person who will be a potential research leader as well as a scientific leader for  Food Chemistry and Technology and Phytochemistry research, and who has clear research visions, educational and administrative skills.Key tasks include the development of an independent research line that focuses on application and/or method development to isolate and characterize the physico-chemical properties and the structure of phytochemical compounds; characterize the dynamics and molecular-level interactions of plant compounds with relevance for food development, aiming at characterize compounds bio and techno-functionalities and organoleptic characteristics, or for further applications within medicinal, agricultural or industrial purposes. The successful applicant will be part of the team that is responsible for phytochemistry analysis, green extraction methodologies for compounds recovery, spectroscopic and structural methods for compounds characterization and functionalization and to investigate the molecular-level interaction models of plant phytochemicals. An important part of the tasks is to provide training for (PhD)-students and Post Docs. This includes advising on general phytochemistry analysis, food chemistry and food technology to develop and optimize processes and solve specific research questions that make use of plant compounds.Key responsibilities include:The Principal researcher is expected to establish an independent and internationally recognized research profile in Food Chemistry and Technology addressing key questions concerning phytochemical research (composition, structure and properties of natural compounds from plants); molecular-level interactions with plant-derived compounds; techno-functionality, nutritional and functional properties, and organoleptic traits of plant active molecules, related to compounds application in food development; gastrointestinal phytochemicals metabolization, bioavailability and related bioactivity.Follow developments within the subject area and the development of society in general that is important for the work at REQUIMTE.Contribute to the supervision of second- and third-cycle students.We expect the successful candidate to value and participate in the general academic work at Faculty of Sciences of University of Porto .Scientific Profile:Ph.D. in Chemistry or Food Chemistry or in a related field with a strong focus on Natural Compounds and Phytochemistry Research.Research Expertise. It is necessary that the research expertise and the professional skills are relevant to the content of the job description and the tasks included in the employment.An interest in new developments and implementation in molecular-level interaction techniques based on highly sensitive molecular approaches to study the dynamics and interactions of plant-based active molecules.Proficiency in advanced phytochemical analysis, green recovery methodologies, structural techniques, structure-activity relationship, phytochemicals modulation and functionalization, and in vitro approaches and simulation models to and study plant-based molecules gastrointestinal bioccessibility, bioavailability and related bioactivity.Proficiency in developing bio- and techno-functional materials, based on phytochemicals and specialized skills in the assessment of physical structures based on microscopy, rheological and textural parameters.Strong publication record in reputable scientific journals, demonstrating the ability to contribute novel insights to the field. Excellent communication and collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. Mindset that supports the transition of scientific knowledge into viable business ventures and the transition of scientific knowledge from academia into industry.Rationale: The recruitment of a Principal Researcher in the field of Chemistry with expertise in Natural Compounds and Phytochemistry, aligns with our institution´s strategic goals in advancing research in Food Chemistry and Science and Food Technology. The emphasis in molecular-level interactions and plant-based molecules functionality is justified to reinforce our team of researchers that focus on fundamental, and curiosity driven research while addressing important research topics in close collaboration with industry, health care and societal bodies. The expertise of the successful candidate will significantly contribute to ongoing research projects focusing on research in healthier, safe, appealing, and sustainable food development and will strengthen our institutional capabilities in these critical areas. The research topic is also in alignment with LAQV-REQUIMTE scientific strategy. This position reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of scientific discovery and making meaningful contributions to the field of Sustainable and Healthy Food Development.