OHAMR Call for proposals 2026

General Information

• Type: Partner looking for project
• Organisation: NOVA MEDICAL SCHOOL
• Country: Portugal (PT)
• Career stage: Other.

Research area

• Scientific area(s) of the call:
  1. Topic 1: Identify and develop new combination treatments using existing or innovative antimicrobials or antimicrobial with adjunctive treatments to extend drug efficacy and combat resistance.
• One Health Setting:

  H - Human Health

• Keywords:

  topical bacterial infections; biocompatible polymeric hydrogels; surfactants;

• Brief description of your expertise / expertise you are looking for:

  We have expertise in the development of surfactant-based hydrogels. Our data show that these formulations: Effectively target pathogens with AMR relevance through localized and sustained drug release. These non-antibiotic, surfactant-based hydrogels display strong local antimicrobial activity against multiple antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. They do not induce antimicrobial resistance in Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria, nor do they promote cross-resistance to conventional antibiotics. Demonstrate activity against critical pathogens (Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Streptococcus agalactiae). The active component of the hydrogels has also shown potent activity against AMR Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (isolated from necropsies), and Candida albicans

• Brief description of your project / the project you would like to join:

  We are eager to join a consortium to apply for the OHAMR program. Our expertise lies in the development of novel surfactant-based hydrogels with potent antimicrobial activity against a range of multidrug-resistant pathogens. This asset can be strategically combined with other existing antimicrobial approaches to enhance efficacy in both the prevention and treatment of AMR infections. We are particularly interested in projects targeting critical pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, and are keen to contribute our knowledge in localized, sustained antimicrobial delivery, as well as mechanistic insights into non-antibiotic strategies that minimize resistance development. We believe our capabilities will complement ongoing efforts within a consortium and accelerate the translation of novel antimicrobial strategies into clinical impact.

Otília Vieira

• Organisation: NOVA MEDICAL SCHOOL
• Position: PI
• E-mail: otilia.vieira@nms.unl.pt
• Phone: 916471016