Scientific Area: Biological Sciences (Ecology and Molecular Biology)

Association BIOPOLIS is opening a call for one Junior Researcher position, in the framework of the project Biodiversity Genomics Europe (BGE; Grant Agreement - project 101059492). BGE is a Horizon Europe collaborative project funded through the Horizon Europe programme that aims to accelerate the use of genomic data for biodiversity genomics endeavors across Europe. The consortium consists of 33 partners, with an overall budget of 21M€, and a duration of 42 months. The successful candidate will develop work in the fields of ecology and molecular biology, carrying out tasks related to the organization and implementation of field work, collection and processing of biological samples, the analysis of data, and the production of reports and scientific papers.

The contracting institution, Association BIOPOLIS, is a private, non-profit organization, which was created in the scope of the project "BIOPOLIS - Teaming to Upgrade Excellence in Environmental Biology, Ecosystem Research, and AgroBiodiversity” (2019-2027), with direct EC funding of 15 M€ and a similar amount by CCDR Norte. BIOPOLIS aims to support the upgrade of the research unit CIBIO – Research Centre in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources to a Centre of Excellence in Environmental Biology, Ecosystem Research, and AgroBiodiversity, through a teaming with a leading scientific institution, the University of Montpellier (France), and with the participation of a business partner, the Porto Business School (PBS – University of Porto, Portugal). CIBIO conducts world-class research in the fields of biodiversity and evolution, hosting more than 30 research groups, which include nearly 200 researchers, and over 100 MSc and PhD students, from across the world. The Centre has state-of-the-art ecology and molecular laboratories and conducts research projects on a global scale, offering great opportunities for multidisciplinary research. Association BIOPOLIS is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer, offering attractive conditions and benefits.

1. SCIENTIFIC AREA: Biological Sciences (Ecology and Molecular Biology)

2. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND COMPETENCIES:

We expect to recruit an enthusiastic and highly motivated researcher from any nationality, with a PhD in biology or related fields, who will be integrated into a large consortium of top research institutions. Previous experience and a solid background in ecology with special focus on plant taxonomy and/or entomology. Extensive experience in fieldwork and DNA barcoding sample collection and preparation is expected as experience in public engagement activities. Experience in distribution modelling, statistical analysis using R and GIS software and taxonomic identification of plants and insects is desirable. Experience in designing and implementing insect monitoring and community ecology studies will also be valued. Candidates should have a good publication record in this area, strong networking skills, be good communicators, and speak and write English fluently. The candidate should have driving licence.

In cases where the PhD/doctorate degree was awarded by a foreign higher education institution, the said degree must comply with the provisions of Decree-Law no. 66/2018 of 16th August until the signature of the contract.

3. WORK PLAN

The researcher will join the BIOPOLIS-CIBIO team within the framework of the European project Biodiversity Genomics Europe (BGE), which aims to accelerate the use of genomic science to enhance understanding of biodiversity, monitor biodiversity change, and guide interventions to address its decline.

The work plan involves:

1. Carry out field sampling for the collection of samples of Arthropods, prepare samples and metadata for DNA barcoding and DNA metabarcoding;

2. Carry out field sampling for the collection of samples of Lichens and Bryophytes, prepare samples and metadata for DNA barcoding and DNA metabarcoding;

3. Carry out museum collection sampling of arthropods and preparation of samples and metadata for DNA barcoding;

4. Network with other researchers and collaborate in the definition and implementation of strategies for completion of DNA barcode reference libraries, with special focus on pollinators;

5. Network with other researchers and collaborate in the definition and implementation of strategies for quality control and quality assurance of DNA barcode reference libraries;

6. Wider public engagement via participation in citizen science activities and communication and dissemination of the project activities and results;

7. Network with other researchers and collaborate in writing technical reports and scientific publications;

The work will be developed under the scientific supervision of Dr. Pedro Beja.

4. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION

Decree-Law no. 57/2016 of August 29th, amended by Law 57/2017 and Regulatory Decree No. 11- A / 2017 which approved the doctorate hiring regime destined to stimulate scientific and technological employment for all knowledge areas (RJEC); Portuguese Labour Code, approved by Law no. 7/2009, of 12 February, in its actual form.

5. WORK PLACE

The work will be carried out mostly at the headquarters of BIOPOLIS-CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, n.º7, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal. The work will also involve field work, as well as attendance of meetings, both in Portugal and abroad.

6. DURATION OF THE CONTRACT

The researcher will sign a work contract for a non-fixed term contract of 16 months, associated with the execution of specific Workpackage (T4.4) of the Horizon Europe project BGE (GA 101059492). The contract will start as soon as possible after the selection process, but not later than the 1st of September 2023, except if agreed otherwise with the successful candidate.

 

7. SALARY

Monthly remuneration to be paid is that set by subheading a) nr.1 article 15 of RJEC and article nr 2 of the Regulatory Decree nr. 11-A/2017, corresponding to level 33 of the Tabela Remuneratória Única, approved by Order no. 1553-C/2008 of December 31st, i.e. 2228,11 Euros.

8. SELECTION METHODS

The ranking of candidates will result from a documental appreciation of the Curriculum vitae (40%), previous experience of the applicant relevant to the project and it’s work plan (40%), and motivation letter (20%). Candidate final classification system shall be given based on a scale 0 to 100.

The panel shall deliberate by means of roll-call vote justified under adopted and disclosed selection criteria, with no abstentions allowed.

The jury may not award the position if the expected quality and requirements of candidates are not fulfilled.

Panel’s final decision shall be validated by the leader of the institution, who is also in charge of deciding about the hiring.

9. COMPOSITION OF THE JURY:

Pursuant to article 13 of RJEC, the tender selection panel is formed by:

President of the jury: Pedro Beja

Vogal: Sónia Ferreira

Vogal: Vanessa Mata

Substitute: Dr. José Melo-Ferreira

10. FORM OF ADVERTISING AND NOTIFICATION OF THE RESULTS

The results will be sent to the candidates by e-mail. The candidates have a 10-working days to comment.

This tender is exclusively destined to fill this specify position and can be terminated at any time until approval of final candidate list, expiring with the respective occupation of said position.

11. DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION AND HOW TO APPLY

Candidates must submit their application by filing the required information and supporting documentation, in a digital form (PDF format), through the electronic address http://www.cibio.pt. Applications will be accepted from 10th July 2023 to 21st July 2023. The application must be formalized compulsorily by submitting at the http://www.cibio.pt the following documents (all documents in English language and PDF format):