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 two highly motivated Predoctoral Researcher for the Stem Cell Biology, Developmental Leukemia and Immunotherapy group led by Dr. Pablo Menéndez and under the leadership of Dr. Marcel Arias-Badia and Dr. Victoria da Silva-Diz at the Sant de Déu campus.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Project 1 - Development of γδ T Cell Immunotherapies for Pediatric Leukemia

This doctoral project will focus on the development and optimization of γδ T-cell-based immunotherapies for pediatric leukemia. The research will explore strategies to enhance the antileukemic activity, persistence, and functional fitness of γδ T-cells. Emphasis will be placed on the discovery of interactions that drive γδ T-cell function against leukemias, such as novel activating ligands or key regulators of γδ T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity.

The project will employ a range of state-of-the-art techniques, including primary immune cell culture, functional immune assays, mouse models, CRISPR-based functional screens, novel immunotherapeutic engineering strategies, and high-dimensional flow cytometry. The research is designed to bring translational advances in pediatric cancer immunotherapy.

Project 2- Immunometabolic Vulnerabilities in Pediatric Leukemia

This doctoral project aims to investigate the immunometabolic mechanisms underlying pediatric leukemia progression and therapeutic resistance. The research will focus on understanding how metabolic programs shape leukemia cell behavior and influence interactions with the immune system. By integrating functional genomics and metabolic analyses, the project seeks to identify novel metabolic dependencies that may represent therapeutic vulnerabilities. In addition, the project will explore strategies to metabolically enhance antileukemic immune responses, with particular emphasis on identifying approaches to improve T-cell fitness, persistence, and effector function within metabolically restrictive environments.

The work will involve advanced experimental models and methodologies, including primary cell cultures, mouse models, CRISPR-based genetic perturbation screens, metabolic profiling, and high-dimensional cytometry. The project is inherently interdisciplinary, bridging cancer biology, immunology, and metabolism, with strong translational relevance.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

We are looking for two highly motivated PhD students with postgraduate studies in biomedicine, immunology, or cell and molecular biology.

WHAT WE NEED

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

• Admission to the PhD program is required.

• International Master Thesis would be a plus

• Experience in cell biology and cell culture techniques.

• Experience in biochemistry and molecular biology.

• Experience in immunology and cancer biology.

• Animal personal licence necessary.

• A high level of motivation and interest in biomedical research.

• Strong collaborative and communication skills.

• Proficiency in English (spoken and written).

• Previous scientific contributions would be a plus

WHAT WE OFFER

• Predoctoral contract.

• Full time contract of 39 hours per week. (flexible work schedule, 23 working days of vacation and days for personal matters).

• Measures to reconcile work and family life.

• Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).

• An exciting and innovative research project.

• Working in the mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu campus.

• Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.

• The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by March 13th, 2026

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.