Post-Doc in Advanced Fluorescence Microscopy @CCMAR Portugal

CCMAR / BPD / 08 / 2024 | Pos-Doctoral Fellowship | Biology and Bioimaging | 1 Vacancy

The Centro de Ciências do Mar do Algarve (CCMAR) announces a vacancy for a postdoctoral fellowship (BPD) in Biology and Bioimaging or a related field. This opportunity is open to candidates of any nationality, including stateless persons and refugees, as part of the research project JDA ID 3193, EMBRC - JDA Atlas - “3D Multimodal Atlas : Sea Life from Micro to Macro,” funded by EMBRC – European Marine Biological Resource Centre.

Host and Contracting Institution : CCMAR

Work Plan, Tasks and Objectives :

The EMBRC-JDA 3D Multimodal Atlas project aims to develop advanced imaging tools to create comprehensive 3D multimodal atlases of marine organisms. The project will integrate 3D histology, lightsheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM), and micro-CT to gather complementary data. It involves collaboration with The Hellenic Centre for Marine Research – HCMR (Greece) and the University of the Basque Country – PiE UPV / EHU (Spain).

The Quantitative Bio-Imaging Lab at CCMAR seeks a motivated postdoctoral researcher specializing in advanced fluorescence microscopy. The successful candidate will work on applying novel microscopy techniques and developing sample preparation protocols to address questions in marine biology and biomedicine. Essential experience includes histology, lightsheet microscopy, and micro-CT, along with laboratory support skills. Responsibilities include:

• Optimizing fluorescence microscopy image acquisition and sample preparation protocols;
• Designing and conducting experiments with bio-imaging equipment;
• Processing and analyzing complex 3D and 4D imaging data;
• Performing routine lab tasks like histological sample prep;
• Collaborating on multidisciplinary research projects;
• Managing imaging supplies and documentation;
• Publishing scientific papers and presenting at conferences;
• Participating in outreach and contributing to grant applications.

Scientific Supervisor: Dr. Teresa Matias Correia, Project Coordinator.

Workplace : CCMAR, Campus de Gambelas, Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal, with possible travel for project needs.

Application Requirements :

• PhD in Biology, Bioengineering, Physics, Chemistry, or related fields obtained within the last three years;
• Experience in advanced fluorescence microscopy and sample preparation techniques;
• Proficiency with image processing software such as Zen, Arivis, Huygens, ImageJ;
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals and conferences;
• Ability to work independently and in teams;

Non-compliance with these requirements may lead to exclusion.

Evaluation Criteria :

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Experience in sample preparation for fluorescence microscopy (40%)
• Experience in advanced fluorescence microscopy (30%)
• Proficiency with image analysis software (20%)
• Academic merit and publications (10%)

Additional advantages include expertise in histology, micro-CT, multi-modal imaging data, AI methods, programming skills, marine and developmental biology knowledge, and microscopy maintenance experience.

The selection process may include interviews. If no suitable candidate is found, the call may be closed or the position offered to the next ranked applicant within 12 months.

Fellowship Details: Duration of 12 months, renewable up to 24 months, starting November 2024. Monthly stipend: €1801, paid via bank transfer, subject to updates per FCT regulations.

Application Period : October 8 to November 10, 2024, 23:59 (Lisbon time).

Mandatory Application Documents :

• Motivation letter (English);
• Detailed CV (English);
• Doctoral certificate copy;
• Contact details for up to 3 referees;
• List of three key scientific achievements with roles described.

Incomplete applications will be rejected. Results will be communicated within 90 days, with a 10-day period for comments.

Selection Committee includes Dr. Teresa Correia (Chair), Professors Deborah Power and João Cardoso, and others.

Additional documentation for selected candidates includes proof of degree, commitment declaration, ID, and IBAN for salary transfer.

The fellowship agreement will be signed upon selection, and performance will be evaluated periodically based on activity compliance, scientific output, and collaboration.

Applicants must declare any disabilities, which will be prioritized in case of equal ranking. CCMAR promotes equal opportunities and non-discrimination in recruitment.