PRR Project

Summary

The University of Aveiro, through the Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation Research Unit, is seeking a highly motivated and skilled researcher in the field of Nanoengineering and Bio-inspired Solutions. The successful candidate will play a critical role in advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative solutions to address complex challenges in these domains. This position offers an exciting opportunity for career development and collaboration with leading experts in academia and industry. Responsibilities:Undertaking pioneering investigations in the domains of nanoengineering and bio-inspired solutions, with an emphasis on the creation of novel materials and technologies.Designing and carrying out investigations pertaining to the properties and behaviour of biomimetic systems and nanostructured materials.Developing novel nanostructures, materials, and manufacturing processes with application in sectors such as health and environmentCollaborating with interdisciplinary teams and experts to design and optimize innovative solutions.Publishing research findings in scientific journals and presenting them at conferences and seminars.Keeping up with of the latest advancements in the field and integrating them into research projects.Exploring opportunities for technology transfer and commercialization of research findings through patents, licensing agreements, or startup ventures.Supervising and mentoring graduate students and research assistants involved in related projects.Participate in grant writing and fundraising activities to secure research funding. Requirements:Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., mechanical engineering, nanoengineering, materials science engineering, biomedical engineering).Demonstrated experience in conducting research in the fields of Nanoengineering and Bio-inspired Solutions, evidenced by a strong publication record in reputable scientific journals.Proven expertise in designing and executing investigations related to biomimetic systems, nanostructured materials, and bio-inspired manufacturing processes.Familiarity with characterization techniques relevant for this field (e.g., electronic microscopies, X-ray Diffraction, X-ray microtomography, mechanical testing)Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and propose innovative solutions.Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects concurrently, and meet project deadlines.Demonstrated ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and collaborate with researchers from various scientific disciplines.Excellent English and Portugues written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and present research findings. Scientific Profile and Rationale:The convergence of nanoengineering and bio-inspired solutions holds great potential and significant implications for diverse sectors such as healthcare, environmental, and robotics. Researchers may apply principles observed in nature and advancements in nanotechnology to create innovative solutions for complex challenges. At the TEMA, we acknowledge the importance of this interdisciplinary approach and its capacity to facilitate groundbreaking progress. The ongoing research projects we are currently working on are in line with two mobilising projects: sustainable manufacturing solutions and technologies for well-being. The TEMA team seeks to exploit the self-assembly mechanisms of biological systems and create nanoscale surfaces with customised properties in order to discover novel opportunities for engineering applications. The candidate´s mission is to contribute to these two main mobilising projects by developing bio-inspired materials, structures, and systems that have improved functionality and performance.Existing and near-future technologies that use standard design and manufacturing methods cannot solve a variety of urgent social issues, including climate change, pollution, infrastructure failure, integrated manufacturing, and human resources and health issues. Creating concepts, approaches, and technologies that mimic and regulate natural processes through bio-inspired design could solve these problems revolutionarily. Bio-inspired technologies resemble natural systems in function or structure (e.g., bio-inspired robot locomotion). Bio-inspired design is a great convergence accelerator track theme because it emphasises technological innovation rather than platforms. Bio-inspired design combines life, physical, engineering, and medical methods, making it convergent.The candidate will have the opportunity to engage in both fundamental research and applied projects, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of real-world solutions. Through mentorship and access to state-of-the-art facilities, TEMA aims to support the professional growth and career development of the research team members.