iBB

The research project “InSilico4OCReg - In silico models guiding in vitro biophysical stimulation of biomimetic hierarchical scaffolds: a computational modelling approach towards functional osteochondral regeneration” was recommended for funding by FCT (250,000 euros in the 2021 Call for SR&TD Project Grants). The project started in January 2022 and aims to develop an innovative combined in silico modelling-in vitro experimental system which, inspired by the properties of the native osteochondral tissue, will be able to optimize tissue engineering strategies towards the production of implants with improved functionality and mechanical properties. The multidisciplinary team of InSilico4OCReg includes researchers from iBB, CDRSP-Politécnico de Leiria, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, NY-USA), and an orthopedic surgeon (Hospital dos Lusíadas). The project, which falls within the scientific area of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Systems, is headed by João Carlos Silva (PI, SCERG-iBB) and Prof. Paula Pascoal-Faria (co-PI, CDRSP-Politécnico de Leiria).

The project "LactoSynt: Lactic Acid Bacteria as Cell Factories: a Synthetic Biology Approach for Plasmid DNA and Recombinant Protein Production" has been recommended for funding by FCT (2017 Call for SR&TD Project Grants). The goal of LactoSynt is to engineer lactic acid bacteria and plasmid vectors in order to develop a flexible platform for biomolecule production. Applications in the pharmaceutical field (DNA vaccines, recombinant proteins) are envisaged. The project, which falls within the scientific area of Medical Biotechnology, is headed by Gabriel Monteiro from BERG-iBB and Leonilde Moreira from BSRG-iBB.

"The NATO Science Programme for Peace and Security (SPS) is an important contributor  to the reinforcement of Euro-Atlantic efforts in international security, enhancing scientific and technological research and promoting international cooperation between NATO Member States and Allies.

The SPS Programme funds R&D multi-annual projects, specialised training sessions, and the organisation of workshops involving the scientific communities of Member States and, at least, one Allied Country. Projects can be funded with between 200 and 300 K€. Purchase of equipment is eligible."

Evguenia Bekman and Tiago Fernandes from SCERG-iBB together with Simão Teixeira da Rocha from IMM-FMUL have been awarded by the Amélia de Mello Foundation (FAM) with the Pedro Maria José de Mello Costa Duarte Scholarship to carry out the project “Exploring new therapeutic strategies for Angelman syndrome: A disease modeling approach based on 3D cerebellar organoids derived from patient iPSCs”. The Angelman Syndrome is a genetic-neurological disease discovered in the 60s of the last century by the English pediatrician Harry Angelman, which is estimated to affect 1 in every 15,000 live births and which is characterized by developmental delay, difficulty in speech, sleep disorders, convulsions, disconnected movements and a frequent smile.

"FCT will be accepting PhD and Post doctoral applications for fellowships until the 30th September 2014. Click on title to learn more."