VAC_47_2026 - PREDOCTORAL RESEARCHER
3 days ago
Badalona
ppThe Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC) is a comprehensive strongcancer research center /strong 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. /p pThe IJC is also part of the network of Excellence Research Centers of Catalonia strong(CERCA) /strong and was accredited as a strongSevero Ochoa Center of Excellence /strong 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 strong(FCAECC) /strong. 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 strong(ISCIII) /strong. /p pThe 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 strongsix locations integrated into reference hospitals /strong: 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. /p pThe IJC is looking for a strongPredoctoral Researcher /strong to join the Epigenetic Control of Haematopoiesis Group, led by strongDr. José Luis Sardina. /strong /p h3RESEARCH DESCRIPTION /h3 pOur research aims to identify and functionally characterize the DNA methylation alterations that are causally involved in AML development and progression. To achieve this, we combine large‑scale epigenomic and transcriptomic analyses, CRISPR‑based epigenome editing technologies, and clinically relevant patient‑derived models. Using dCas9‑DNMT3A and dCas9‑TET1 tools, we precisely manipulate DNA methylation at selected genomic regions to determine their impact on gene expression, leukemia stemness, disease progression, and therapeutic response. The project integrates multi‑omics profiling, computational modeling, in‑vitro functional validation, and in‑vivo studies using AML patient‑derived xenograft (PDX) models. Through these approaches, we seek to identify disease‑driving DNA methylation events associated with mutations in epigenetic regulators, validate their functional relevance, and translate them into predictive biomarkers of AML progression and response to hypomethylating therapies. Ultimately, this work aims to advance precision medicine strategies by providing novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for patients with acute myeloid leukemia. /p h3MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES /h3 ul liPerform molecular biology and DNA methylation analysis techniques, including qPCR, Western blot, DNA/RNA extraction, pyrosequencing, and basic sample preparation for downstream molecular analyses. /li liPhenotypic characterization using flow cytometry (FACS). /li liAnalyse and interpret epigenomic and transcriptomic datasets to identify candidate genes and regulatory pathways relevant to haematological contexts. /li liWork with patient‑derived models (PDX and primary cultures). /li liPerform animal handling and experimental procedures in mouse models, including tissue collection and sample processing. /li /ul h3WHAT WE NEED /h3 ul liMaster’s degree in Biomedicine, Biotechnology, Genetics or a related field. /li liCertification in animal experimentation, covering functions A, B, and C. /li liStrong interest in cancer biology, particularly the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying haematological malignancies. /li liExperience in epigenetics, gene regulation, or CRISPR‑based approaches, including familiarity with DNA methylation analysis and/or functional genomic assays, will be considered an asset. /li liAn excellent academic record. /li liAbility to handle varying workloads and aptitude for teamwork. /li liStrong collaborative and communication skills. /li liProficiency in English (spoken and written). /li /ul h3WHAT WE OFFER /h3 ul liPredoctoral contract (3 years). /li liFull time contract of 39 hours per week. /li liAn exciting and innovative research project. /li liWorking in the mixed basic and clinical research environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute. /li liIncorporation in a multinational and highly collaborative team. /li liThe stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area. /li /ul h3DEADLINE /h3 pPlease submit your application by 13 July 2026. /p h3EEO STATEMENT /h3 pThe 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. /p /p #J-18808-Ljbffr