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 400 members and 30 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 seeks to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the lab of Drs. Francesc Posas and Eulàlia de Nadal at the IRB Barcelona (https://www.irbbarcelona.org/en/research/cell-signaling).

The Cell Signaling Group is seeking to recruit an outstanding and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to study the regulation of the Retinoblastoma (RB) as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cancer. More specifically the candidate will address how a specific RB mutant can override CDK activity in normal and tumor cells and mouse models (Gubern et al. “The N-terminal phosphorylation of RB by p38 bypasses its inactivation by CDKs and prevents proliferation in cancer cells” Mol Cell. 2016 64: 25-36). The successful applicant will join a team of international researchers based at the IRB. H/she will work in an exciting, interactive challenging and equal opportunity team-working environment in a modern research institute, with cutting edge research infrastructures and core facilities.

DUTIES: 

• Carrying out experiments with animal models of cancer.
• Maintenance and genotyping of mouse colonies.
• Cell culture.
• Coordination of several compound screenings.
• Chemical characterization of molecules on therapeutic targets.
• Biochemical test of the activity of compounds.
• Co-supervise PhD or Master students together with the PIs.
• Present and discuss research projects in the group and in the institute.
• Write manuscripts together with other researchers and the PIs.

EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS:

Must Have – Required: 

• Experience: PhD in any of the Life Sciences fields.
• Knowledge: Experience in using mice as a model organism is mandatory. Strong background in cell and molecular biology techniques. Research experience in signaling field.
• Skills: Ability to contribute to other projects on a collaborative basis both in the lab and with external collaborators. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills in English. Ability to work independently. Highly motivated, ambitious, and collaborative person.

Desirable:

• Accreditation for Animal handling training.
• Good publication track record.
• Experience in molecular oncology studies and cancer mouse models.
• Experience in compound screenings
• Experience in chemical characterization of molecules on therapeutic targets.
  
• Potential to guide PhD students in their research.

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:  

Applications for the above opening should include a cover letter summarizing research interests and goals, full CV and the names and addresses of two references.

• Deadline for applications: 15/12/2023 (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.