Created in 2005 by the Generalitat de Catalunya (Government of Catalonia) and the University of Barcelona, IRB Barcelona is a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence—a seal that was awarded in 2011.

The institute is devoted to conducting research of excellence in biomedicine and to transferring results to clinical practice, thus improving people’s quality of life, while simultaneously promoting the training of outstanding researchers, technology transfer, and public communication of science. Its 28 laboratories and seven core facilities address basic questions in biology and are orientated to diseases such as cancer, metastasis, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and rare conditions.

IRB Barcelona is an international centre that hosts 450 members and 35 nationalities. It is located in the Barcelona Science Park. IRB Barcelona forms part of the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST) and the “Xarxa de Centres de Recerca de Catalunya” (CERCA). 

IRB Barcelona is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our TRIP Clinics Laboratory, which focuses on the assessment of the potential of CAR-T therapy for the treatment of breast cancer, in order to obtain a novel therapeutic option for patients with incurable breast cancer.

The selected candidate will work in a collaborative initiative between fundamental and clinical research. TRIP-Clinics Initiative implies a synergic strategy to translate research into patient treatments by promoting high-quality, medically relevant research spanning from early diagnosis to the development of novel therapies. This position will be co-led by the Group Leader Growth Control and Cancer Metastasis laboratory and Group Leaders from the FRCB-IDIBAPS.

The job opening is part of the “CaixaResearch TRIP", a Clinical Translation Initiative supported by ”la Caixa” Foundation. This initiative aims to foster synergic interaction between fundamental research scientists at IRB Barcelona and medical groups.

DUTIES: 

• Conduct independent research in the context of breast cancer metastasis and treatment resistance.
• Contribute to the program through research accomplishments, personal growth, and interaction with others.
• Supervise PhD students and technicians.
• Manuscript and grant writing.
• Report results, participate in the laboratory meetings and scientific discussions.

EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS:

Must Have – Required: 

• Experience:
  • PhD in biomedicine or biosciences, with experience in cell biology and molecular oncology.
  • Previous postdoctoral experience in molecular oncology projects.
    
• Knowledge:
  • ChIP-sequencing analysis, gene expression analysis (RNA-seq, single cell RNA-seq, and optimally in spatial RNA-seq).
  • Cell culture.
  • Molecular biology (qRT-PCR, mutagenesis, cloning, CRISPR, etc), cell biology (immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, ELISA, etc) and biochemistry (WB, kinase activity assays, etc).
  • Recombinant protein expression methods in various systems (mammalian cells, insect cells and/or bacteria) at the levels required for structural/biochemical studies.
  • Biochemical characterization and cell biology of proteins.
  • Animal models, with special emphasis on genetically modified mouse models, xenografts, drug delivery and in vivo imaging.
    
• Skills:
  • Interpersonal and effective communication skills.
  • English (fluent, oral and written).
  • Ability to work independently well as within a team.
  • Highly organized, detailed-oriented, pro-active attitude.
  • Time- and deadline-management skills.

Desirable:

• Experience in writing and scientific and/or technical management of research projects will be an asset.
  
• Experience mentoring and directing students will be an asset.
  
• Knowledge in genetically modified mouse models of breast cancer is an asset.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ENTITLEMENTS:

• Working conditions: Employed in compliance with Spanish legislation and regulations under a full-time contract. Employees receive the benefits of the Spanish Social Security system covering sickness, maternity/paternity leaves and injuries at work.
• Training and Career: Postdoctoral researchers joining IRB Barcelona gain access to the Institute’s advanced research training and career development opportunities, all within in a competitive international environment. Courses and workshops on themes of particular interest to postdocs are offered regularly by the Institute.
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• International environment: Nearly 90 Postdoctoral researchers (more than a half non-Spanish nationals) are currently working at IRB Barcelona.
  

HOW TO APPLY & SELECTION PROCESS:  

• Deadline for applications: 30/09/2023 (If no suitable candidate is found, the deadline will be extended) 
• Number of positions available: 1
• Selection process:
  • Pre-selection: Will be based on CV, motivation letter, experience, management of research and innovation. 
  • Interviews: Short-listed candidates will be interviewed.
  • Job offer: Will be sent to the successful candidate after the interview. 

Note: The strengths and weaknesses of the applications will be provided upon request.