PhD Researcher (Assistant Researcher) in Contamination and Toxicology of Marine Organisms University of Coimbra in Portugal

The University of Coimbra is inviting applications for an international tender to fill a PhD Researcher position, equivalent to the category of Assistant Researcher, in the Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology. This opportunity is based at the Centre for Functional Ecology and is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Regional Program of Centro (CENTRO2030) of Portugal 2030 (Project reference: CENTRO2030-ERDF-02614400).

The successful candidate will investigate the presence and effects of emerging contaminants, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides in marine organisms, focusing on their impacts on food safety. Responsibilities include planning and conducting field sampling and laboratory assays, developing and validating multiresidue methods using advanced liquid chromatography techniques (UHPLC-TOF-MS and LC-MS/MS), and applying these methods to various matrices such as bird tissues, water, sediments, primary producers, invertebrates, and fish. The researcher will assess impacts through bioassays and biomarkers, analyze bioaccumulation and risks to human consumption in commercially relevant species, and participate in environmental monitoring programs, including those involving invasive species.

Additional duties involve integrated data analysis, preparation of scientific articles and technical reports, communication of results, and knowledge transfer to the scientific community, management authorities, and the public. The position offers a gross monthly wage of 3,501.28 euros, with a contract duration of three years, renewable for up to six years.

Applicants must hold a PhD in contamination, toxicology, natural sciences, or a closely related field, and demonstrate a strong scientific background relevant to the research area. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, eligible for public sector employment, in good health, and meet compulsory vaccination requirements. Non-native speakers of Portuguese or English must have C1 proficiency in one of these languages (CEFR). Foreign PhD holders must provide degree recognition or registration at contract signing, with costs covered by the University of Coimbra for selected candidates.

The selection process includes assessment of scientific background and CV (90%) and an interview (10%). Applications must be submitted via the Apply UC electronic platform (https://apply.uc.pt/IT057-25-16295), with all required documents uploaded in PDF format. The deadline for applications is January 7, 2026.

The University of Coimbra is committed to equal opportunities and non-discrimination in employment. For further details, visit the official notice at Diário da República and the EURAXESS portal (position link).