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 Junior Translational Platform Technician in the field of biomedicine to join the Core Facilities Area. This new platform will be created at IJC as soon as possible.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

Experimental design

• Contribute to the preparation and writing of animal study protocols for submission and approval by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).
• Design and coordinate preclinical anti-tumor therapeutic efficacy studies in close collaboration with scientists and technical experts from various IJC laboratories.
• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical and experimental techniques to improve study accuracy and reproducibility.

In vitro activities:

• Perform standard and 3D (organotypic) cell culture using established cell lines and primary patient-derived samples.
• Conduct proliferation and cytotoxicity assays for the evaluation of new single agents and drug combinations.

• Perform phenotypic and molecular analyses using standard techniques such as Western blotting and quantitative PCR (qPCR).

In vivo activities (support and execution):

• Carry out tumor implantation and transplantation procedures (e.g., subcutaneous, intravenous, intrasplenic, retro-orbital).
• Conduct bone marrow transplantation experiments.
• Design and perform pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD), and toxicity studies to assess new therapeutic compounds or drug combinations.
• Support the development and testing of diverse treatment modalities, including targeted therapies, immunotherapies (CAR-T, bispecific antibodies), gene and hormonal therapies, and supportive interventions such as nutrition and pain management.
• Monitor tumor growth and therapeutic responses using advanced imaging modalities, including ultrasound, MRI, CT, and bioluminescent optical imaging (IVIS).
• Assist or perform surgical procedures relevant to tumor modeling and treatment studies.
• Generate, expand, and characterize patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models.
• Manage genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), including colony maintenance, breeding, and genotyping.

WHAT WE NEED

• Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences , Biology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.
• Experience with pre-clinical research, including:
  • Expertise in multicellular culture systems (experience in organoid generation and/or analysis will be highly valued)
  • Proficiency in standard analytical and molecular techniques such as flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and qPCR.
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience with in vivo experimental models, including manipulation of transgenic mice, generation of cell line- and patient-derived xenografts, pharmacology studies, advanced imaging, and drug testing protocol development.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets.
• Genuine interest in translational research and collaborative, team-based science.
• Excellent communication skills and a strong motivation to contribute to impactful research.
• High proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines efficiently.
• Well-organized, proactive, and enthusiastic, with a commitment to maintaining high scientific and ethical standards.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Full time contract (1623 hours per year)
• 1-year contract, with possibility to be extended, (“Indefinido por actividades científico técnicas”) linked to the implementation of the strategic plan supported by the Severo Ochoa funds associated to the accreditation of excellence.
• Este contrato es parte de la ayuda #CEX2023-001258-S, financiado por MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.
• Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, teleworking, 23 working days of vacation and 9 days for personal matters).
• Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).
• Training and development opportunities.
• Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.
• To work in a new strategic platform in the institute
• Mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
• Competitive Salary to be further defined depending on candidate experience.
• The stimulating environment of the IJC and its scientific network.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by 31^st October 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.