IRB Barcelona invites applications for the position of Head, Histopathology Core Facility. The successful candidate will report to the Director, Technology Strategy and Core Facilities, and will play a key role in providing high-quality, innovative histopathological services to the research community at IRB Barcelona and collaborators.

The Histopathology Core Facility is a centralized, high-quality support service that delivers a full range of histopathological and spatial biology solutions. The Facility supports both internal IRB researchers and external collaborators from public and private biomedical sectors. It offers a range of routine and advanced histological techniques, cutting-edge digital and spatial pathology solutions, and tailored experimental services, complemented by specialized training and collaborative project design.

The Head of the Histopathology Core Facility will lead and oversee the operational and strategic development of the platform, driving the implementation of next-generation spatial biology technologies and fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence. The successful candidate will manage a team of research and technical officers and collaborate with multiple research groups across disciplines, including oncology, immunology, metabolic diseases, and aging research.

This is a unique opportunity to join a multidisciplinary, forward-thinking environment and contribute to the advancement of biomedicine through innovative histopathological and spatial biology approaches.

This position is financed by the Postdoctoral Research Staff Stabilization Support Program (ESTAB) 2024 of the "Departament de Recerca i Universitats de la Generalitat de Catalunya (ref. BDNS 797016)".

Key responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee the operations, personnel, and strategic development of the Histopathology Core Facility.
• Mentor and train staff and users in histopathology, digital pathology, and spatial biology techniques.
• Provide expert consultation on experimental design, sample preparation, and data interpretation in histopathology and spatial omics.
• Coordinate histopathology input for drug discovery, biomarker identification, and disease modeling studies.
• Implement and validate new technologies in molecular pathology, spatial biology, and digital image analysis.
• Ensure high standards in quality control, reproducibility, and data integrity.
• Establish and maintain collaborations with local, national, and European research institutes, biotech, and pharma companies.
• Foster an innovative environment by continuously exploring and adopting novel histopathological and spatial analytical methods.
• Promote the visibility and services of the Core Facility externally.

You have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Sciences, Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or a related discipline.
  
• Prior experience in competitive research environments and team management or coordination.
  
• Solid hands-on expertise in state-of-the-art histological techniques and experimental animal pathology.
  
• Strong understanding of image analysis tools and digital pathology, and an enthusiasm for spatial biology technologies.
• Fluency in English, both spoken and written.
• A proactive, innovative mindset with the ability to identify, evaluate, and implement cutting-edge methodologies.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to manage a technical service.
• A service-oriented mindset and willingness to collaborate closely with researchers and support staff.
• Demonstrated ability to foster collaborative environments and drive innovation.

You might also have:

• PhD in Pathology and/or an equivalent recognized postgraduate qualification in experimental animal pathology.
• Prior experience leading a core facility, technical platform, or research team.
• Familiarity with preclinical drug and biomarker studies.
• Experience with spatial transcriptomics, multiplexed imaging, or advanced tissue profiling technologies.
• Hands-on experience with digital pathology platforms and AI-based image analysis.
• Knowledge of Spanish and/or Catalan.

What we offer:

To be a part a part of something meaningful: We are a biomedical research centre that tirelessly works to achieve a society free of diseases. Our mission is to carry out research of excellence to cure cancer and other diseases linked to ageing.

Good Working conditions: Permanent Contract linked to the Postdoctoral Research Staff Stabilization Support Program (ESTAB) 2024 of the "Departament de Recerca i Universitats de la Generalitat de Catalunya (ref. BDNS 797016)". 

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 leave and injuries at work.

Competitive salary: commensurate with experience and qualifications

International Environment: we are home to nearly 500 researchers, technical and support staff from 45 countries.

To be a member of our State-of-the-Art Core Facilities: Scientists at IRB Barcelona thrive with unparalleled support from our extensive Core Facilities, equipped with the latest technologies and scientific services. These essential resources drive our research excellence, delivering cutting-edge innovations rapidly to our team.

Continuous Training: Transversal and general training is offered to our community (examples include research seminars, conferences, training in time management, scientific integrity, gender equality, health and safety, languages courses and emotional wellbeing).

Relocation & Visa Assistance: Trained staff provides support on visa paperwork, administrative requirements, and practical information on living and working in Barcelona, etc.

Social Life: We like to have fun. We promote several activities, like a Football League, an annual skiing trip, a Mountaineering Club, a Running Club and "Cool-off sessions", where members meet informally for drinks, snacks and scientific discussions.

Fairness: Our recruitment is open, transparent and merit-based, and all applicants compete on the same terms. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, ethnic origin or disability.

How to Apply:

• Deadline for applications: 10/12/2025 (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,
  • 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.