VAC_111_2025 - PREDOCTORAL RESEARCHER (Applied Epigenetics 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 Predoctoral Researcher to join the Applied Epigenetics Group, under the supervision of Dra. Maria Berdasco.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Our research aims to ascertain the therapeutic benefit of targeting epigenetic alterations in cancer together with the epigenetic-based stratification of patients to predict therapy response. To achieve this, we develop research based on three specific aims:

Identification of the epigenetic alterations that act as drivers of tumour progression (“druggable epigenetic alterations”).
Validation of epidrugs that can efficiently revert aberrant epigenomes in cancer.
Stratification of patients based on their epigenetic profile to predict response to immunotherapy.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

To handle human samples (DNA/RNA/Protein extraction) and processing them for downstream -omic applications.
To perform basic molecular biology with a focus on epigenetic research and gene editing approaches
To perform in vitro assays with cultured cells. Performs cell expansion, establishes validated culture systems, and supports laboratory teams in compound testing and mechanistic studies
Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry staining of patient samples and analysis by confocal microscopy
Flow cytometry analysis
Basic bioinformatic analysis

WHAT WE NEED

Master’s degree in biomedical sciences or a related field.
Strong interest in cancer biology, particularly the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying haematological malignancies.
An excellent academic record.
Ability to handle varying workloads and aptitude for teamwork.
Proactivity, creativity, team building and collaboration.
Availability to work independently, will be highly appreciated.
Strong collaborative and communication skills.
Proficiency in English (spoken and written).

WHAT WE OFFER

Contract “Indefinido por actividades científico técnicas” finançat per la Fundació Internacional Josep Carreras" o "amb el suport de la Fundació Internacional Josep Carreras
Full time contract of 39 hours per week
An exciting and innovative research project.
Working in the mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
Career Development Plan
Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).
Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.
The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by the end of 19th of December 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.