PRR Project

Summary

The prospective employee will be responsible for conducting groundbreaking research focused on developing state-of-the-art methods for the synthesis of functional molecules that are relevant for advancements in medicine, crop science, and material science. Synthetic nucleosides, nucleotides and analogs/mimetics are important groups of molecules in organic and in medicinal chemistry, due to their propensity to exhibit a variety of bioactivities of therapeutic interest. Their ability to compete with their physiological counterparts and inhibit nucleotide-dependent events, particularly nucleic acid synthesis, as nucleic acid antimetabolites, has been well exploited and has resulted in various molecules being approved as chemotherapeutic agents. However various drawbacks are associated with the currently clinically used nucleos(t)ide analogs, namely their reduced oral bioavailability, unwanted toxic effects and chemotherapeutic resistance. Therefore, the development of novel structures of bioactive nucleos(t)ide analogs that may circumvent these issues is highly desirable.The hiring and host institutions, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa (FCUL)/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry (DQB) and CQE/FCUL, have strategic plans dedicated to advancing their research dealing with the development of Synthetic Organic Chemistry and Medicinal Nucleo(t)ide Chemistry, focusing on the development of structurally innovative nucleos(t)ide analogs of therapeutic interest.The recruited researcher for this job position is expected to develop innovative organic synthesis, including structurally novel nucleoside and nucleotide analogs of interest in medicinal chemistry with potential therapeutic application for non-communicable diseases, such as cancer or neurodegenerative diseases, as well as for infection, tackling innovative mechanisms of action to overcome drug resistance. These research objectives are within the priority challenges of the host institution (CQE) thematic line MEDLife. The hiring institution (FCUL) has in turn a strong commitment in promoting interdisciplinary research addressing the scientific challenges in health, particularly through the interdisciplinary ULisboa network “Rede Saúde”, especially within the areas of oncology, neurodegenerative diseases and infectious diseases.The researcher should also implement and establish efficient, innovative, and elegant synthetic routes for the new molecules, prioritizing regio- and stereoselective transformations, click-chemistry procedures, aiming at fewer-step and more sustainable synthetic processes, contributing also for the MOLCat thematic line of CQE.The candidate should have a solid background in Organic Chemistry, particularly in the context of developing and synthesizing novel hit and lead organic molecules, including biomimetic compounds or enzyme inhibitors.Key areas of focus include i) developing novel methods for the selective synthesis of small molecules, leveraging cutting-edge strategies like C-H activation, synthetic organic electrochemistry, emphasizing enantio- and diastereoselective transformations; ii) advancing green chemistry towards biomass valorization strategies and continuous flow (electro)chemical processes; iii) integrating organic chemistry with physical organic chemistry and data sciences, such as multivariate linear free-energy relationships, for molecular design, mechanistic understanding, and predictive capabilities to underpin synthetic research; iv) creating biologically active molecules employing diversity-oriented synthesis, targeting multi-drug resistance and non-communicable diseases, with a focus on antibacterial and anticancer compounds; v) exploring new areas in supramolecular (homogeneous) catalysis.Previous experience in carbohydrate and/or nucleos(t)ide synthetic and medicinal chemistry is highly recommended. The researcher should have previously demonstrated his ability to establish successful collaborations as principal investigator in research projects in Medicinal Chemistry.  The researcher is also expected to participate in academic activities of Ciências ULisboa, which are part of its mission of transmitting and spreading scientific knowledge, particularly with the implementation of innovative teaching methodologies (curricular units within Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry and related subjects) and advanced training of MSc and PhD students.The ideal candidate should possess a solid background in synthetic organic chemistry and demonstrate: i) outstanding scientific achievements and success in securing competitive external funding; ii) an original research concept that embodies innovation and novelty; iii) independent research); iv) competence in teaching courses of organic chemistry or  related subjects; v) ability to engage in consulting or collaboration with industry partners, bridging academic research and practical applications in the industry.