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 Predoctoral Researcher to join the Stem cell biology, developmental leukemia and immunotherapy Group and the Paediatric Haematologic Malignancies Research Program IJC-SJD, under the supervision of Dr. Gerardo Ferrer.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Our research focuses on understanding the cellular origin, etiology, and pathogenesis of childhood leukemia. We aim to identify the cell in which mutations occur and to determine which cells are responsible for triggering relapses. Furthermore, we work to find new therapeutic targets and develop more targeted, less toxic therapies. To achieve this, our laboratory uses various approaches, including genetic studies, epigenetic techniques, animal models, and adoptive cell immunotherapy tools.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

• Handle human biological samples, including DNA, RNA, and protein extraction, and prepare them for downstream multi-omic applications.

• Perform standard and advanced molecular biology techniques, with a particular focus on epigenetic analyses and gene-editing approaches.

• Conduct in vitro experiments using primary cells and established cell lines, including cell culture, expansion, validation of culture systems, and functional assays.

• Support compound testing and mechanistic studies related to leukemia biology and therapeutic response.

• Perform flow cytometry–based experiments, including immunophenotyping, cell sorting, and data analysis.

• Carry out basic bioinformatic and statistical analyses of high-throughput datasets.

WHAT WE NEED

• Master’s degree in biomedical sciences or a related field.

• Strong interest in cancer biology, particularly the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying haematological malignancies.

• An excellent academic record.

• Ability to handle varying workloads and aptitude for teamwork.

• Proactivity, creativity, team building and collaboration.

• Availability to work independently, will be highly appreciated.

• Strong collaborative and communication skills.

• Proficiency in English (spoken and written).

WHAT WE OFFER

• Temporary Contract, Indefinido por actividades científico-técnicas (IACT), Funded by the Deutsche José Carreras Leukämie Stiftung (DJCLS 03 R/2024 project)”.

• Full time contract of 39 hours per week

• An exciting and innovative research project.

• Working in the mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.

• Career Development Plan

• Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).

• Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.

• The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by the end of 26th of February 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.