Research Grant Assignment in Metabolic Stress and Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Investigate immune metabolism and mitochondrial function in rheumatoid arthritis and related conditions at the University of Coimbra.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a master's degree in biomedical sciences and practical laboratory experience in cellular biology and assay techniques.
Overview
The University of Coimbra invites applications for a 4-month research grant under the METRAJAKi project, focusing on the link between metabolic stress, fatigue, and JAK inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis. The successful candidate will work within the Centre for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CiBB), conducting laboratory investigations on peripheral blood mononuclear cells and plasma samples. Key responsibilities include cellular isolation, flow cytometry, gene expression analysis, and mitochondrial respiration assays. Applicants are expected to hold a master's degree in a relevant scientific discipline and be enrolled in a doctoral or non-degree-granting course.
What you'll do
- Isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma samples from clinical cohorts.
- Assess mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species production, and mitochondrial mass via flow cytometry.
- Determine mitochondrial DNA copy number and gene expression using RT-PCR techniques.
- Evaluate mitochondrial respiratory chain oxygen consumption and glycolytic activity through Seahorse assays.
- Quantify intracellular ATP levels using chemiluminescence assays and analyze energy substrate oxidation via MitoPlate assays.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Biomedical Research, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, or related scientific fields
Language: Proficiency in English and/or Portuguese.
Instruction: Portuguese and English
- Demonstrated theoretical and practical knowledge in cellular and molecular biology techniques.
- Experience with cell isolation and culture from clinical samples.
- Proficiency in molecular assays such as RT-PCR and flow cytometry.
- Ability to analyze and interpret complex biochemical and metabolic assay data.
- Open to Portuguese nationals, nationals of other EU member states, third-country nationals, stateless persons, and political refugees.
- Candidates must be enrolled in a doctoral degree or an approved non-degree-granting course related to the research activities.
- Candidates enrolled in non-degree-granting courses must not exceed a total accumulated period of two years in this grant type.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-02
Candidates must register and apply through the electronic platform Apply UC by completing the required sections and submitting all mandatory PDF documents before the deadline.
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic degree certificates
- Proof of enrollment in a degree or non-degree course
- Motivation Letter
- References
Contact
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