IRB Barcelona is seeking a an outstanding and highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Batlle Lab at IRB Barcelona for a unique translational research project at the interface of academia and industry. In close collaboration with the pharmaceutical industry, the successful candidate will investigate the activity of a novel therapy co-developed by the Batlle lab and the pharma in colorectal cancer (CRC).

This project offers the opportunity to work on a highly promising therapeutic program with genuine potential to impact patients. The successful candidate will use state-of- the-art models and approaches, including patient-derived organoids, in vivo models, and molecular and functional analyses.

If your dream is to contribute to discoveries that can directly benefit patients — or to build a career that bridges academic excellence and the biotechnology/pharmaceutical sectors — this project offers a rare chance to connect both worlds while working on an innovative therapy with clear momentum.

This position is co-funded by the: “Research Collaboration Agreement in Colorectal Cancer – MERUS” project.

YOU HAVE  

• Applications are invited from highly motivated and ambitious researchers with a PhD degree and a strong track record in cancer biology, molecular biology, translational oncology, pharmacology, or related fields.

• Experience in organoid biology, therapeutic antibody research, drug response studies, colorectal cancer models, or in vivo work will be considered as an asset.

• Applicants should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• A unique project in close collaboration with the pharmaceutical industry

• The opportunity to work on an innovative therapy with strong translational relevance

• Access to cutting-edge experimental models and technologies

• A stimulating, international, and highly collaborative research environment

• Direct exposure to both academic discovery and industry-driven drug development

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: Contract linked to the project “Research Collaboration Agreement in Colorectal Cancer – MERUS”.

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: Nearly 90 Postdoctoral researchers (more than a half non-Spanish nationals) are currently working at IRB Barcelona.

Multidisciplinary Research: Research of excellence at the unique interface between biology, chemistry, and structural and computational biology.

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.

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 & SELECTION PROCESS:

• Deadline for applications: 15/05/2026 (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 & three references with names and contact details.

  • Interviews: Short-listed candidates will be interviewed.

  • Job offer: Will be sent to the successful candidate after the interview. 

IRB BARCELONA endorses the Requirements and Principles of the European Charter for Researchers, the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, and Open, Transparent, Merit-based recruitment promoted by the European Commission and follows Equal Opportunities policies.

On 9 December, 2014, IRB Barcelona was awarded the "HR Excellence in Research" logo. This recognition reflects the commitment of the Institute to the continuous improvement of its human resources policies in line with the Charter & Code. The Institute works to ensure fair and transparent recruitment and appraisal procedures.

Please check our Recruitment Policy.

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

ABOUT IRB BARCELONA,

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 29 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 500 members and 45 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).