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 Bioinformatics Predoctoral Researcher to join the Regulatory Genomics Group, led by Dr. Tanya Vavouri.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Our research focuses on three main areas:

• Acute Myeloid Leukemia and other hematological malignancies are the diseases with the highest frequency of mutations in regulatory genes (DNA methylation, chromatin modifiers, transcription factors etc) and diseases treated with demethylating agents and other epigenetic drugs. Driven by curiosity to understand the effects of these mutations and therapies on gene expression, we hope to contribute novel insights into disease mechanisms that may be useful for the development of novel treatments.
• In the past, we collaborated on multiple studies on the mechanisms of inter- and trans-generational epigenetic inheritance in animals. We remain interested in all aspects of gene and genome regulation in the germline, in particular the mammalian male germline. We have an active line of research on the biogenesis of a class of small non-coding RNAs highly expressed in the male germline, called PIWI-interacting RNAs.
• Last but not least, we are interested in transposable elements, the regulatory mechanisms that keep them repressed as well as the regulatory effects of transposable element insertions on other genes of the genome.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

• Work together with the supervisor to define the research project, in line with the research interests of the group.
• Analyse transcriptomics data using new and existing methods and tools. The primary focus will be image-based transcriptomics, but RNA-seq and other omics data will also be used.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest scientific advancements by reading articles and attending conferences.
• Maintain research integrity.
• Document the work done during the PhD.
• Publish research papers and present research at conferences and seminars.
• Maintain motivation and resilience.

WHAT WE NEED

• Master’s degree in Bioinformatics or a related discipline. The PhD project will be dry-lab based.
• Excellent past academic performance is a plus.
• Programming and data analysis skills. Programming in R and familiarity with the Linux environment are essential.
• Strong interest and motivation to pursue a research career in life sciences.
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Problem-solving mindset.
• Critical thinking.
• Ability to think outside the box. Creativity.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Full time contract (1623 hours per year)
• Temporary contract (1 year), extendable for up to 3 years. “Este contrato es parte del proyecto PID2024-162796NB-I00 financiado por MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/ y por FEDER, UE”

• Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, 23 working days of vacation and 9 days for personal matters).
• Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).
• A highly innovative research project.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Working in the mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
• Incorporation in a highly collaborative team.
• The stimulating environment of the IJC and its scientific network.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by the 9th of September 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.