Senior PhD Researcher: Cellular Biotechnology & Genetics – Portugal
About Fundação Gaspar Frutuoso & IITAA
Applications are open for a Senior PhD Researcher Cellular Biotechnology Portugal position at the Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research and Technologies (IITAA) in Angra do Heroísmo, Azores. The role focuses on assisted reproduction technologies and genetic conservation protocols. Fundação Gaspar Frutuoso is a research foundation supporting the Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research and Technologies (IITAA) at the University of the Azores. The research will be conducted at the Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (FCAA) on the Angra do Heroísmo University Campus in Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal.
Scholarship Overview
Project Summary
This position involves conducting scientific research activities in the scientific field of Cellular Biotechnology and Genetics, Agricultural Sciences, or related fields, within the scope of the Program Contract relating to the Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Research and Technologies (IITAA). The researcher will focus on assisted reproduction technologies, cryopreservation, and genetic conservation protocols.
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
This senior researcher position is unique because it combines laboratory research (in vitro embryo production, cryopreservation) with practical applications in animal breeding and genetic conservation. The role is based in the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago known for its unique agricultural heritage and biodiversity. The position offers a stable, indefinite-term contract with a competitive monthly salary of €3,501.28. The researcher will work on reducing interventions on live animals while preserving valuable genetic resources – an approach that aligns with sustainability and ethical animal breeding practices. For a PhD holder with experience in animal reproduction and cryopreservation, this is an opportunity to lead research that directly supports the agricultural sector, breeders’ associations, and conservation programs.
Candidate Profile and Eligibility
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | PhD in Applied Biological Sciences, Cellular Biotechnology and Genetics, Agricultural Sciences, or related fields |
| In vitro production | Experience in maturation, fertilization, and embryo culture |
| Cryopreservation | Proven experience in cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, and assessment of embryo quality and viability |
| Protocol Development | Development, adaptation, and validation of cryopreservation protocols for semen, oocytes, and embryos |
| Laboratory Skills | Handling of gametes and embryos in controlled laboratory environment and in the field, ensuring asepsis, biosafety, and traceability |
| Scientific Output | Authorship or co-authorship of publications in peer-reviewed international scientific journals |
| Project Experience | Participation in and/or coordination of research projects funded by national or international entities, particularly European programs |
| Training | Collaboration in training activities, technical guidance for students, and support for teaching activities |
| Outreach | Experience in outreach and knowledge transfer activities |
| Conferences | Participation in international scientific conferences and meetings |
My Application Strategy
- Highlight your experience with in vitro embryo production – Be specific about maturation, fertilization, and embryo culture protocols
- Emphasize cryopreservation expertise – Detail your experience with semen, oocyte, and embryo cryopreservation, including quality assessment methods
- Show your publication record – Peer-reviewed international journal publications are weighted at 45% of the academic evaluation
- Demonstrate project participation – Include documented evidence of your involvement in R&D projects, especially European programs
- Prepare a one-page summary of your most relevant scientific activities from the past 5 years, structured according to the evaluation criteria
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Remuneration | €3,501.28 gross |
| Contract Type | Fixed-term employment contract of indefinite duration |
| Hours | Part-time (35 hours per week) |
| Start Date | June 1, 2026 |
| Location | Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal |
| Evaluation Weights | Academic background (90%) + Interview (10%) |
Who Should Apply
This position is perfect for an experienced PhD researcher with a strong background in cellular biotechnology, genetics, and assisted reproduction technologies. If you have expertise in in vitro embryo production, cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, and genetic conservation protocols, this role offers the chance to lead research that directly supports agricultural sustainability and biodiversity preservation. Candidates with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and participation in European research projects are especially encouraged. The ideal candidate is someone who values both scientific excellence and ethical, responsible animal breeding practices.ogical impacts.
How to Apply
Submit your application by email to:
alfredo.borba@uac.pt (with a copy to silvia.f.martinho@uac.pt)
Required Documents:
- Written request addressed to the Chair of the Selection Committee, including the internal reference (Euraxess), full name, identification details, residence, email, and phone number
- Copy of the certificate or diploma
- PDF copy of the doctoral dissertation and publications
- Detailed curriculum vitae, structured according to items 7 and 8
- Brief description of the most relevant scientific activities over the past 5 years (max 1 page)
- Other documents relevant to the evaluation of qualifications
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