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 Research Assistant in Training in the Cancer genetics group led by to join Dr. Montse Sanchez-Cespedes.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

The comprehensive genetic characterization of tumours is essential for understanding cancer development, identifying novel therapeutic targets, and improving the selection of patients who are most likely to benefit from specific cancer treatments. Our research employs state-of-the-art high-throughput sequencing technologies to generate comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic profiles and to identify recurrently altered genes and pathways across different cancer types. We are also interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which alterations in these genes drive tumour initiation, progression, and response to therapy. Ultimately, our goal is to translate these insights into the identification of novel therapeutic targets and the discovery of mechanisms underlying acquired resistance to anticancer therapies.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

The successful candidate will be responsible for the bioinformatic analysis of genomic and transcriptomic datasets generated in the laboratory. This includes data derived from whole-exome sequencing (WES), bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single-cell DNA sequencing (scDNA-seq), single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), pooled library and CRISPR/Cas9 functional genetic screens, and spatial transcriptomics. The candidate will develop and apply computational pipelines, integrate multi-omics datasets, and collaborate closely with experimental researchers to interpret results and generate biological insights.

In addition to bioinformatics analyses, the successful candidate will contribute to selected experimental (wet-lab) activities, including the preparation of samples for next-generation sequencing, library preparation, quality control, and other molecular biology techniques as required by ongoing projects.

WHAT WE NEED

• Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Genomics, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Computer Science, or a related discipline.

• Previous experiences in research laboratory, ideally in genomics, bioinformatics, or cancer research

• An excellent academic record.

• High level of communication skills and teamwork abilities.

• Previous wet-lab experience in molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, NGS library preparation, or quality control) is desirable.

• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

• Highly organized, independent, proactive, self-motivated, and enthusiastic, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Temporary position (Training contract) with possibility to continue as PhD candidate.

• Full time contract of 39 hours per week

• Proyecto CPP2023-010525 financiado por MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 y por

• FEDER, UE “Nuevas estrategias combinatorias y biomarcadores de respuesta a inhibidores de hdac6 para el tratamiento del cáncer (combatir)”

• Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, working days of vacation and days for personal matters).

• 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.

• Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.

• The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.

DEADLINE

Please submit your application by August 4rd, 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.