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 Laboratory Technician in Training to join the Cancer metabolism group, led by Dr. Lucas Pontel.

RESEARCH DESCRIPTION

Our laboratory is dedicated to understanding and exploiting the unique characteristics of cancer that could be targeted to halt the disease. We focus on the metabolic reprogramming of leukemic cells, which has been recognized as a defining feature of cancer. Tumor cells often alter their metabolism to support their rapid growth and proliferation. However, these same metabolic reactions also produce harmful toxins, such as aldehyde and reactive oxygen species, that can damage cancer cells. Our research aims at identifying the mechanisms that cancer cells use to protect themselves from these toxins, and on exploiting these mechanisms to develop new cancer therapies.

MAIN RESPONSABILITIES

• Basic laboratory work, including DNA, RNA and protein purification, gene-expression assays, molecular cloning, tissue processing, cell purification and cell culture.
• Participation in wet-lab and in silico tasks, with the possibility of contributing to the development, implementation or organization of bioinformatic pipelines, depending on expertise.
• Preparation, storage and inventory management of common laboratory reagents, and contribution to the general organization of the laboratory.
• Participation in lab meetings and active engagement in scientific discussions.
• Motivation to develop and pursue an independent research project within the broader aims of the laboratory.

WHAT WE NEED

• Training qualifications: a professional degree (BSc/MSc level) in Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology or a related discipline.
• BSc/MSc thesis in a related discipline.
• Applicants must have graduated no earlier than July 2024.
• Applicants must not have previously held a training contract in the same professional field in Spain.
• Good understanding of cellular and molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry.
• Great organizational abilities, attention to detail and team-oriented skills.
• Responsibility, proactivity, and self-motivation: ability to work in autonomy as well as supervised.
• Fluent English, both spoken and written.
• Commitment to an equity, diversity and inclusion-based, international working environment.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Temporary position: 6 months renewable up to one year (Training contract).
• Possibility to continue as PhD student afterwards.
• Full time contract of 39 hours per week.
• Este contrato está vinculado al proyecto: Proyecto “Decoding the role and vulnerabilities of p53 in genome instability-associated myeloid tumors (VulnerAM)”. Ayuda CNS2025-166473 financiada por MICIU/AEI /10.13039/501100011033
• A training plan with continuous work-learning activities, progress tracking, and mentoring.
• Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, 23 working days of vacation and 12 days for personal matters in 2026).
• Flexible remuneration program (kindergarten and other measures).
• Incorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team.
• The opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge research project in the stimulating environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
• The vibrant scientific and cultural environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.

DEADLINE

To apply for this opportunity, please submit your application by June 29th, 2026, Applications must include CV, Bachelor’s and/or Master’s certificates, two referees, and a brief motivation letter.

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.