The Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO) research group from the Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR) (Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra), in partnership with ULS Coimbra, focuses on cancer survivorship, translational oncology, and the integration of omics technologies into clinical outcome research. The research group combines expertise in NMR-based metabolomics, patient-reported outcome methodology, surgical oncology, clinical nutrition, exercise oncology, and multidisciplinary cancer care, with a strong commitment to improving the long-term wellbeing of cancer survivors within the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) and in alignment with European cancer policy priorities.

Research Topic

We are inviting candidates to develop an original MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship proposal within one or more of the following thematic areas, which reflect the group’s current research priorities in colorectal cancer survivorship:

1. Survivorship and clinical outcomes in colorectal cancer

2. Translational metabolomics and biomarker research

3. Multidisciplinary intervention and rehabilitation in cancer survivors

4. Clinical research methodology and health data science

Candidate Profile/ Expertise and Skills

We are seeking highly motivated early career researchers, interested in developing an ambitious MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) proposal within the thematic areas above, with a genuine interest in translational and patient-centred cancer research.

Applicants should ideally hold:

▸  A PhD in biomedical sciences, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, biochemistry, nutritional sciences, public health, or related disciplines

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly valued:

• Patient-reported outcome instruments and health-related quality of life assessment

• Longitudinal cohort study design and mixed-methods research

• Health behaviour intervention design in oncological or chronic disease populations

• Science-to-policy translation and clinical guideline development for cancer survivorship

• Systematic review and evidence synthesis methodology

Additional requirements:

▸Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

▸Capacity for independent research, scientific creativity, and cross-disciplinary teamwork

▸Interest in translational research bridging laboratory and clinical findings with direct patient benefit

Hosting Research Environment

The University of Coimbra, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities, provides a vibrant, internationally connected academic environment with a strong tradition in biomedical, clinical, and translational research. UC is consistently ranked among the top research universities in Portugal and maintains extensive partnerships with European and global institutions.

The host group is integrated within the Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), a dynamic research ecosystem promoting interaction between basic scientists, clinicians, and international collaborators. Clinical activities are developed in partnership with ULS Coimbra, ensuring direct access to patient cohorts and integration with surgical and oncology teams within the National Health Service.

Fellows will benefit from access to:

▸  Clinical research and biobank facilities at ULS Coimbra

▸  Multidisciplinary consortium expertise spanning surgical oncology, medical oncology, clinical nutrition, exercise medicine, and biostatistics

▸  Connections with national oncology networks and European research collaborations

The laboratory offers an interdisciplinary training environment with structured opportunities in:

▸  Cancer survivorship research design, translational methodology, and clinical biomarker studies

▸  NMR metabolomics data acquisition, processing, and biological interpretation

▸  Clinical observational and interventional study coordination within European regulatory and ethical frameworks

MSCA fellows will also have the opportunity to actively engage in collaborative projects, mentoring activities, student supervision, networking events, and science outreach initiatives.

Application and Contact Details

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following documents:

▸A preliminary project proposal (1–2 pages) aligned with the laboratory’s research themes and suitable for an MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship

▸Curriculum vitae

▸Motivation letter

Applications and informal inquiries should be sent to:

Ana Margarida Abrantes, MD, PhD: mabrantes@fmed.uc.pt 

Scopus Author Id: 26029747600

Web of Science Researcher ID: GZG-9457-2022