CIBB

Overview

Project Summary

C-ChaNCE: CiBB – Choice of a New Career in Europe

The Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CiBB) at the University of Coimbra is a leading interdisciplinary research hub and the largest in CENTRO-region of Portugal, with “Excellent” rating in international evaluation. CiBB integrates neuroscience, metabolism, aging and therapeutic innovation, combining fundamental research with a strong translational focus. It has secured major prestigious competitive funding, including several Teaming and ERA Chair transformative projects, and is expanding with new state-of-the-art facilities due to open in 2026. Its advanced scientific platforms, operating in network with several EU research infrastructures, provide researchers with access to cutting-edge technologies.

CiBB’s strategic priorities address major biomedical challenges such as neurodegeneration, metabolic and aging-related disorders and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Close collaboration with the Coimbra Health Unit and the Biocant biotechnology park strengthens translational research, offering access to patient cohorts, clinical studies and industry partnerships.

Postdoctoral researchers recruited under the MSCA-Cofund-CE C-ChaNCE [DOI: 10.3030/101313496] benefit from an environment that promotes excellence, collaboration and career development. Support includes tailored mentorship, advanced scientific training, and opportunities for teaching, supervision and outreach, complemented by the Associated Partners EuroBioimaging and the CAJAL Advanced Neuroscience Training Programme. Participation in seminars, retreats and secondments with clinical and industrial partners builds key skills in open science, entrepreneurship and responsible innovation. Fellows join a dynamic and supportive ecosystem designed to foster successful independent research careers.

Main Goals

MSCA-Cofund-CE actions aim to

increase the attractiveness of European research careers by offering longer-term professional perspectives;
offer excellent working conditions, turning the current challenge of brain drain in the research and innovation sector into brain gain.

For that, C-ChaNCE will recruit 6 talented, R2-level postdoctoral fellows, providing them with excellent research and academic opportunities translatable into concrete and attractive career prospects. The new fellows will join established CiBB research groups and conduct their research activities in the context of a set of germinal R&D topics and approaches (projects) framed under CiBB’s overall R&D strategy.