VAC_08 _2026 - LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (Spatial Transcriptomics laboratory)

The Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC) is a comprehensive cancer research center dedicated to conduct research and drive innovation in the epidemiological, preventive, clinical, translational, and basic aspects of leukaemia and other hematologic malignancies, with the final aim of finding a cure for these diseases. It was created in 2010, and since then has experienced an exponential growth.

The IJC is also part of the network of Excellence Research Centers of Catalonia (CERCA) and was accredited as a Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence by the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities in 2024. Since 2018, the Institute has also been accredited by the Scientific Foundation of the Spanish Association Against Cancer (FCAECC) Additionally, IJC is one of the centers integrated into the Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP) accreditation as Accredited Health Research Institute (IIS) by the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII).

The IJC's main headquarters is located within the Can Ruti Biomedical Campus, alongside other leading biomedical institutions, providing direct access to cutting-edge scientific and technological facilities, as well as complementary community services. The IJC has six locations integrated into reference hospitals: Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Hospital Clínic, Hospital Sant Pau, Hospital Josep Trueta, Hospital del Mar and Hospital San Joan de Déu. This facilitates close collaboration between basic and clinical researchers, fostering translational research that integrates basic science with clinical practice in clinical settings.

The Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute Can Ruti We are looking for a Laboratory Technician to join the Spatial Transcriptomics laboratory. This laboratory is part of the Cancer immunogenomics group, led by Dr. Eduard Porta.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Our research focuses on Spatial biology, which is a field of life science that studies how the location, organization, and interactions of cells, genes, proteins, and other molecules within tissues influence biological function and disease. Instead of analyzing cells or biomolecules in isolation, it preserves their physical context, allowing researchers to see where specific cell types are, how they communicate with neighbors, and how molecular signals are arranged across space. By combining imaging, genomics, proteomics, and computational analysis, spa-tial biology provides a map-like view of living systems that reveals how structure and function are linked in development, health, and disorders such as cancer.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

Performing RNA and DNA extraction.
Performing Spatial Biology (Spatial Transcriptomics and proteomics) protocols.
Preparation and storage of NGS libraries.
Implementation of new protocols of interest to the lab.
Maintenance of a detailed record of the samples processed, the protocols used and all relevant information.
Support of the lab manager and other group members in generation of standard op-eration procedures for the lab.
Preparation of histological sections.
Staining of histological sections.

WHAT WE NEED

Degree (BSc/MSc level) in Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology or a related discipline (e.g. Biomedicine, Biomedical Sciences). Or professional degree as Laboratory techni-cian (FPGS Laboratorio clínico y biomédico, Anatomia patológica or similar).
Demonstrated expertise in precise micropipetting techniques and accurate liquid handling at microliter volumes.
Extensive hands-on experience performing molecular biology protocols with high at-tention to detail.
Ability to follow complex experimental procedures exactly as written while maintain-ing consistency and reproducibility.
Strong focus and concentration during repetitive, detail-sensitive laboratory tasks.
Proven track record of maintaining clean technique and preventing cross-contamination.
Experience with histological samples, including sectioning of paraffin- and OCT-embedded blocks and performing H&E staining, will be a plus.
Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation will be a plus.
Interest in research and collaborative team science.
Excellent communication skills and strong motivation to contribute to high-impact re-search.
Proficient in written and spoken English.
Proactive, with strong initiative abilities.
Ability to work independently and efficiently.
Organized, self-motivated, and enthusiastic.
Strong commitment to high-quality work.

WHAT WE OFFER

Temporary Contract (Indefinido por actividades científico-técnicas) This position is linked to the Project “PID2024-159258OB-I00 financiado por MICIU/AEI /10.13039/501100011033 y por FEDER, UE”
Full-time contract (39 hours per week).
Training and development opportunities.
Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.
International network of the Institute.
The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.
Working in the mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
Competitive Salary to be further defined depending on candidate experience.
The stimulating environment of the IJC and its scientific network.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by the 15th of March 2026

WHO WE ARE?

What makes us different?

The mission of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute is to conduct research and drive innovation in the epidemiological, preventive, clinical, translational, and basic aspects of cancer, with a special emphasis on Leukaemia and other malignant blood diseases, with the aim of finding a cure for these diseases.
The IJC’s vision is to be a world-class reference and excellent research center that contributes to the improvement of results, and the cure of patients affected by leukaemia and other malignant haemopathies, through innovation, sustainability, social responsibility, talent, and professional experience.

HR Excellence

In 2019, IJC was honored with the “Human Resources Excellence in Research Award” by the European Commission, recognizing the alignment of our human resources policies with the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) guides research centers of excellence in implementing and upholding these standards within their policies, emphasizing training, professional development, and mobility opportunities.
The IJC’s commitment to these values and principles strengthens our internal policies and ensures that our members have the optimal conditions and environment for their professional development.
The Board of Trustees is composed of representatives of the Generalitat de Catalunya (regional government), University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Barcelona, the City of Badalona and the Jose Carreras International Leukaemia Foundation
The Catalan government provides hard money on an annual basis. The Jose Carreras International Leukaemia Foundation provides start-up funds, project funds as well as financial support for investments.
The JCI has an international scientific advisory board served by prominent researchers from US and Europe.
The IJC has been awarded ERC and other EU grants.

The IJC is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or other legally protected characteristics.