CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
for the recruitment of a Researcher
Within the framework of the Action “Research – Innovate” of the “Competitiveness” Program (NSRF 2021–2027), the company PharmaGnose Biotechnological S.A. intends to recruit temporary research staff to support the implementation of the approved research project entitled:
“Holistic utilization of Olea europaea for the production of innovative bioactive products with pharmaceutical, cosmetic and nutritional applications, using cutting-edge ‘green’ technologies”
(Acronym: hOLIstic & Application Code: EKPAR03-0071583),
which is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) of the European Union and by National Funds.
The hOLIstic project focuses on the integrated (holistic) utilization of olive biomass (Olea europaea) and underexploited by-products of olive cultivation and production (such as leaves, branches, flowers, and olive mill waste). The main objective is the development and production of innovative natural products with high added value (bioactive extracts, isolated compounds, and semi-synthetic analogues) with documented pharmacological properties (such as anti-aging and anti-inflammatory activity, as well as targeting metabolic syndrome). These products are intended for applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and dietary supplement industries.
The overall implementation of the project is based on the principles of the circular bioeconomy, incorporating modern, environmentally friendly “green” technologies and sustainable extraction methods using non-toxic solvents (NADES), transforming agro-industrial residues into a source of innovation.
To support the above activities, the company intends to recruit one (1) Researcher who will join the project’s research team and actively contribute to the implementation of Work Packages related to:
optimization of production processes for the company’s existing olive-based products “OLEAMED” and “PHYLLOLEA”,
production of new bioactive extracts from selected olive varieties and olive cultivation by-products,
chemical analysis of natural products derived from Olea europaea.
The employment duration will be eight (8) months, with the possibility of extension depending on project needs and funding availability. The type of contract may be either a fixed-term employment contract or a service contract, in accordance with the approved physical and financial scope of the project.
The researcher will participate actively in the implementation of activities related to innovative “green chemistry” methodologies applied in the production of both existing and new extract-based products derived from Olea europaea.
Specifically, the role includes:
contributing to the production of new bioactive extracts from selected olive varieties and underutilized by-products,
conducting chemical analysis of the resulting natural products,
documenting, analyzing, and scientifically presenting research results,
contributing to the preparation of technical reports and project deliverables.
Required and Desired Qualifications
Candidates must hold a university degree (BSc) in a relevant scientific field, such as:
Pharmacy
Chemistry
Chemical Engineering
Agronomy
Biology
or another related discipline
A PhD in fields related to pharmacology or pharmacognosy is highly desirable.
Substantial, documented research experience will be strongly considered, particularly in areas involving:
extraction and isolation of targeted bioactive compounds or extracts,
participation in research projects and authorship of publications and/or conference presentations.
Additional important qualifications include:
ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment,
good command of the English language,
familiarity with writing scientific reports, technical documentation, and presentations.
Application Submission
Interested candidates are invited to submit a detailed CV along with supporting documents verifying their qualifications, exclusively in electronic format, to:
financial.dpt@pharmagnose.com
This call will remain posted on the company’s website for a period of ten (10) calendar days, from 20/04/2026 to 29/04/2026.
Candidate selection will be conducted in accordance with the principles of transparency, equal treatment, and non-discrimination, as defined by the applicable regulatory framework for co-funded projects.
The evaluation process may include, if deemed necessary, an interview stage for candidates who meet the required qualifications.
