Empowering the Next Generation of Researchers for Advancing Global Antimicrobial Resistance Endeavors

Objetivo

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an escalating threat to global public health and is now recognized as a major EU policy priority. ENGAGE aims to attract researchers and strengthen their capacity to accelerate antimicrobial drug discovery by targeting key human-threatening pathogens, including bacteria (with emphasis on ESCAPE pathogens), Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Plasmodium species causing malaria, and fungi responsible for systemic infections.

To expand the pool of research talent, ENGAGE will recruit five postdoctoral researchers covering the full antimicrobial drug discovery cycle by expertise in computer-assisted drug design, medicinal/synthetic organic chemistry, structural biology, and preclinical pharmacology. The programme will leverage the advanced infrastructure, scientific excellence, and extensive international collaborations of Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis and Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre (forming National Institute of Research and Innovation, NIRI, in 2026).

ENGAGE offers highly attractive appointment conditions and exceptional career development prospects in both academia and industry through a triad-mentoring system, interdisciplinary and intersectoral scientific training, comprehensive transferable-skills training, networking, and mobility opportunities, including non-academic placements. This will cultivate a new generation of skilled researchers, boost Latvia’s talent pool, and reinforce Europe’s capacity for excellence and innovation in antimicrobial drug discovery.

By strengthening Latvia's Smart Specialisation Strategy (RIS3) priority area of biomedicine and pharmaceutical innovation and expanding NIRI’s research and innovation capacity, ENGAGE will reinforce NIRI’s role as a regional hub for pharmaceutical research and enhance its integration within the European Research Area, contributing to Europe’s attractiveness as a leading destination for research and innovation.