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 Postdoctoral Researcher for the Chromatin biology laboratory led by Dr. Alejandro Vaquero.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

The Chromatin Biology Laboratory, led by Alex Vaquero, is internationally recognized for its expertise in studying cellular response mechanisms under stress conditions. The group's main objective is to define the role of the Sirtuin family of enzymes in regulating genome stability and epigenetics in response to stress, and to understand their impact on cancer, senescence, and aging.

This project, funded by a prestigious La Caixa Junior Leader Fellowship, aims to investigate the epigenetic mechanisms driving B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), with a particular focus on the recently uncovered SIRT7–PAX5 regulatory axis. B-ALL is the most common childhood cancer and a leading cause of leukemia-related mortality in adults. Although therapy has improved significantly, relapse remains frequent, particularly in adults and high-risk molecular subtypes.

The B-cell transcription factor PAX5 functions as a key tumor suppressor, but it is inactivated in over 30% of B-ALL cases. Recent work from our group, published in Nature Immunology, identified SIRT7 as the first upstream regulator of PAX5 protein stability, suggesting a fundamental role for this axis in B-cell development and leukemogenesis.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

The successful candidate will explore the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms controlling PAX5 activity, as well as the therapeutic potential of the SIRT7/PAX5 interplay in B-ALL. The project takes a multidisciplinary approach, combining state-of-the-art molecular and cellular biology techniques with genomics, proteomics, and patient-derived leukemia models.

WHAT WE NEED

• We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher
• PhD in Biology, Biomedicine, Medicine, or a related field.
• Strong interest in cancer biology, with a focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying hematological malignancies and immune regulation.
• Prior experience working with mouse models, particularly in the context of leukemia (highly valued).
• Solid expertise in molecular and cellular biology techniques (essential).
• Knowledge in stress response pathways, sirtuin biology, and proteomic/genomic approaches (desirable).
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Good command of written and spoken English.

WHAT WE OFFER

• A 3-years contract linked to the project BYPAX-ALL: Innovative targeting of PAX5 in B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Fundació La Caixa, Caixa Research Health grants (HR25-00563)
• Highly competitive salary
• An exciting and innovative multidisciplinary research project with strong potential to advance the treatment of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
• Incorporation in a well-established, multinational, dynamic and highly motivated team
• The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.
• The project will also involve collaboration with world leaders in clinical and pre-clinical study of B-ALL and drug discovery
• Working in the outstanding multidisciplinary research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by October 30th, 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.