A Master's Scholarship in Molecular Biology is available at the University of São Paulo's Lorena School of Engineering (EEL-USP) in Brazil. This opportunity, funded by FAPESP, focuses on developing a biopharmaceutical platform using microalgae, specifically Creglicerase.
The successful candidate will join the JUST Lab to contribute to bioprocess development for biopharmaceutical proteins, engaging in activities like screening microalgae strains and enzymatic assays.
Quick Facts
| Opportunity | Scholarship |
|---|---|
| Institution | University of São Paulo (USP) |
| Department | Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL) |
| Location | Lorena, Brazil |
| Region | Latin America |
| Open to | International applicants |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Stipend / Salary | R$ 3,270.00/month |
| Duration | Not specified |
| Start date | January-June 2027 (negotiable) |
| Application deadline | 21 November 2026 |
About the Position
The scholarship recipient will be responsible for screening and selecting recombinant microalgae strains, small-scale protein production, enzymatic activity assays, and preliminary kinetic characterization. This work is integral to the FAPESP Young Researcher Aid project, supporting the advancement of bioprocesses for proteins with biopharmaceutical potential.
Eligibility
- Undergraduate degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Microbiology, Engineering, or related fields, completed by the required enrollment deadline.
- Basic knowledge of microbiology and molecular biology, gained through coursework or practical experience.
- Meet the admission requirements for the PPGBI/EEL-USP program.
- Meet the FAPESP scholarship concession requirements.
- Prior research experience or experience with microalgae is not mandatory but desirable.
Benefits
- Monthly scholarship stipend of R$ 3,270.00
- Opportunity to work on a FAPESP-funded Young Researcher project
- Research experience in microalgae biopharmaceutical development
Documents Required
- CV or Lattes link
- One-page motivation letter (in English; if Lattes is in Portuguese, summarize relevant experience in English within the letter)
How to Apply
- Send CV or Lattes link and a one-page motivation letter to molino@usp.br.
- Use the subject line: "MSc JUST Lab 2026 – Full Name".
- Submit applications by November 21, 2026, at 23:59 (Brasília, UTC–3).
- Pre-selected candidates will be invited for an online interview between November 23 and 27, 2026, which will include a brief presentation.
Source: FAPESP Opportunities (Brazil).
Details can change – always confirm eligibility and deadline on the official listing before applying.
