VAC_105_2025 - ASSOCIATED RESEARCHER

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.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

We are looking for an Associated Researcher to join the Epigenetic Therapies research group of Dr. Maria Berdasco, aim to modify the epigenome, the set of molecular processes that regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence and can change the course of a disease and its phenotype. There are now examples of epigenetic drugs for treating haematological malignancies approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, the volume of promising preclinical evidence far exceeds the number of epigenetic research projects that have resulted in clinical applications to patients. Therefore, more translational studies that may lead to the development of more specific epigenetic drugs and more robust biomarkers are required.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

To provide support in the development of preclinical studies based on epigenetic therapies aimed to inhibit cancer proliferation.
To handle human samples (DNA/RNA/Protein extraction) and processing them for downstream -omic applications.
To perform basic molecular biology with a focus on genetic transformation and clonation tenchiques
To perform in vitro assays with cultured cells. Performs cell expansion and immortalization, establishes validated culture systems, and supports laboratory teams in compound testing and mechanistic studies
Training staff in sample handling and biosafety, collaborating with clinicians and data scientists, and coordinating material transfer and compliance

WHAT WE NEED

To provide support in the development of preclinical studies based on epigenetic therapies aimed to inhibit cancer proliferation.
To handle human samples (DNA/RNA/Protein extraction) and processing them for downstream -omic applications.
To perform basic molecular biology with a focus on genetic transformation and clonation tenchiques
To perform in vitro assays with cultured cells. Performs cell expansion and immortalization, establishes validated culture systems, and supports laboratory teams in compound testing and mechanistic studies
Training staff in sample handling and biosafety, collaborating with clinicians and data scientists, and coordinating material transfer and compliance

WHAT WE OFFER

Full time contract.
Permanent contract (taxa de reposició 2024)
Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, teleworking, 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.
Managing a new strategic platform in the institute
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 December 12th, 2025

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.