Projeto PRR

Sumário

The Neurobiology and Neurologic Diseases (NND) integrative program at i3S is offering an open-ended contract as Assistant Researcher to a Recognized Researcher (R2) developing exciting research in the field of Neuroscience. The selected candidate will be expected to bring strong and innovative research value to reinforce the scientific interests and strategy of the NND integrative program of i3S.One of the strategic objectives of the NND program is to conduct robust fundamental research, understanding the mechanisms that underly specific brain related diseases, identifying targets for innovative translational approaches, and cross-talking with clinical partners.  The NND program has a major focus on neurodegenerative diseases, ranging from common dementias, i.e. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and other prevalent proteopathies (such as TTR-amyloidosis), pain, chronic substance use, and motor impairment, to rare and neglected diseases, such as mutations affecting lipids/ plasmalogens or peroxisomal biogenesis and a number of diseases resulting from mutation in ataxia linked proteins or polyglutamine repeats. Globally neurodegenerative and other neurologic diseases affect millions of people worldwide, representing one of the major causes of death and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The likelihood of developing a neurodegenerative and other neurologic diseases rises dramatically with age, fueled by a combination of genetic susceptibility, environment, life style and social-economic status. As life expectancy increases, also the prevalence of such diseases escalates, mostly in countries like Portugal, where a large share of the aged population faces economic constrains. On the other extreme of lifespan diseases, the NND program also conducts research in disorders “usually first diagnosed in childhood or adolescence”, commonly referred to as neurodevelopmental disorders.  Either caused by genetic mutations or with sporadic etiology, the intellectual, social and motor disabilities produced by these diseases are also a source of deep distress for families.In this scenario, improving the understanding of what causes these diseases and the development of new approaches for treatment and prevention, is of upmost relevance, and is perfectly aligned with both the mission and scientific strategy of i3S, and with the strategy of the NND program.The scientific strategy motivating the need for this Assistant Researcher position is to build a diverse team of Staff Scientists. This team will enhance multidisciplinary collaborative projects within the NND program and across the integrative programs at i3S. We aim at increasing the NND critical mass and enhance its international competitiveness reinforcing the following research areas: Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience; Neurobiology of Disease; Translational and Clinical Neuroscience; Neurogenetics and Developmental Neuroscience; Sensorial and Cognitive Neuroscience.Within the context of the NND research groups, candidates are expected to develop their own research projects and actively seek research funding. Additional responsibilities include promoting knowledge and technology transfer; supporting advanced training by participating in graduate and PhD programs, supervising PhD, Master and other students, and by promoting advanced training courses, increasing science awareness by participating in the i3S educational program and outreach activities and providing operational support to the laboratory.We particularly welcome applications from candidates holding a PhD in Life Sciences, Health, or related fields for over 5 years. Candidates should possess a scientifically relevant background in the research areas listed above, demonstrating scientific excellence and autonomy through original contributions to peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. Moreover, candidates should have prior experience in leading research projects, securing competitive funds, supervising doctoral students, engaging in international research endeavors, and delivering lectures/presentations at national/international meetings.