VAC_09_2026 - POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER (Regulatory RNA and chromatin group)

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.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher for the Regulatory RNA and chromatin group led by Dr. Sònia Guil. Candidates with experience in molecular and cellular biology, RNA biology, or epigenetics are encouraged to apply.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Our lab investigates the diverse functions of RNAs and RNA-binding proteins under changing cellular conditions, with a special focus on the noncoding transcriptome. We aim to identify truly biologically relevant noncoding molecules and understand how they integrate into broader gene regulatory networks.

While cancer research has paved the way for studying noncoding RNAs, the importance and versatility of the noncoding transcriptome are now widely recognized across biological systems. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), act as key regulators of gene expression at multiple levels — from chromatin organization and transcriptional control to RNA processing, translation, and decay. They participate in the fine-tuning of developmental and stress-response programs and in maintaining cellular identity. As key modulators of cellular homeostasis, their dysregulation is increasingly linked to human disease. By uncovering how lncRNAs interface with RNA and protein networks, we seek to reveal novel mechanisms of disease and potential therapeutic targets.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

Design, execute, and lead research projects investigating the regulatory functions of non-coding RNAs and their roles in modulating signaling pathways and cellular processes relevant to cancer.
Participate in collaborative projects with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, contributing to translational research initiatives.
Mentoring PhD students and junior researchers. And promote collaboration within the group and assist in the integration of new technologies and methodologies.
Support the preparation of grant applications, data analysis, and scientific publications.

WHAT WE NEED

Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D in Biology, Biomedicine, Medicine, or a related field.
Strong background and hands-on experience in non-coding RNA research or molecular/cellular biology (essential).
Research experience in cancer.
A passion for science and commitment to scientific rigor.
Leadership and teamworking.
Excellent communication skills and motivation to contribute to high impact research.
Proficient in writing and speaking in English.
Motivation to perform high quality work.

WHAT WE OFFER

Postdoctoral contract (3 years) Este contrato es parte del proyecto PRYGN259219GUIL financiado por la Fundación Científica Asociación Española contra el Cáncer (FCAECC).
Full time contract.
Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, teleworking, 23 working days of vacation and days for personal matters).
Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).
Training and development opportunities.
Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.
An innovative and interdisciplinary research project.
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 February 23th, 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.