The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) is a cutting-edge institute addressing global public health challenges through research, translation into policy and education. ISGlobal has a broad portfolio in communicable and non-communicable diseases including environmental and climate determinants, and applies a multidisciplinary scientific approach ranging from the molecular to the population level. Research is organized in five programs: Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health; Environment and Health over the Lifecourse; Global Viral and Bacterial Infections; Malaria and Neglected Parasitic Diseases and Maternal Child and Reproductive Health. ISGlobal is accredited with the Severo Ochoa distinction, a seal of excellence of the Spanish Science Ministry.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
ISGlobal is seeking a talented laboratory technician to work on the GenMoz project in Barcelona. The successful candidate will be mainly responsible for purification of DNA and RNA from malaria parasites, molecular diagnosis using qPCR and RTqPCR analysis, management of patient samples and support in other general laboratory activities. Experience in genomics will be valued but it is not a requirement. The candidate will also contribute to the training of students and junior researchers in wet lab applications. Applicants willing to engage in an academic program at the end of the appointment are also encouraged to apply (although this is not a requirement).
GenMoz project aims to advance in the goal of malaria eradication through the identification of key drivers of malaria transmission using innovative genomic and analytical tools. The project is being implemented by the Malaria Physiopathology group at ISGlobal, in collaboration with the Manhiça Health Research Center (Mozambique) and the University of California-San Francisco (UCSF). We target 3 use cases: a) antimalarial and diagnostic resistance; b) parasite importation & characterization of local transmission in near-elimination settings; and c) stratification, monitoring and impact evaluation. The final aim is to integrate main genetic data into surveillance activities in Mozambique through periodic interactions with the National Malaria Control Program and other stakeholders in the country working on the surveillance space.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Apply molecular approaches to characterize parasite populations from Mozambique (mainly nucleic acid purification and amplification techniques) and derive epidemiologically actionable information for malaria molecular surveillance.
- Registration of results in lab databases and management of lab files.
- Provide support to molecular activities of the team in other research projects, sample management and general lab activities
SPECIFIC DUTIES
- Purify parasite genetic material from dried blood spots and rapid diagnostic tests using plate-based protocols.
- Perform quantitative analysis of malaria parasites using qPCR.
- Perform transcriptional analysis of malaria parasites using qRT-PCR and other platforms.
- Data entry into databases.
- Organize and manage the project sample biobank.
- Execute targeted NGS sequencing of malaria parasites (optional).
- Contribute to management of NGS files and storage of the data.
- Participate in regular lab management activities (rotating cleaning and maintenance, contribute to orders of materials, …)
- Participate in weekly team meetings and present results if required.
- Interact with research teams in Mozambique, USA or elsewhere for troubleshooting, training and harmonization purposes.
- Participate in wet-lab training / guidance of students.
- Additional technical duties as assigned.
- Support the team in relocation to new facilities
AUXILIAR TASKS
This job description reflects the present requirements of the post but may evolve at any time in the future as duties and responsibilities change and/or develop providing there is appropriate consultation with the post-holder.
This job description is not a definitive or exhaustive list of responsibilities but identifies the key responsibilities and tasks of the post holder. The specific objectives of the post holder will be subject to review as part of the individual professional assessment process.
SKILLS
- Strong problem-solving competence and effective communication skills.
- Drive and determination.
- Desire to learn.
- Focus and discipline.
- Respects and embraces diversity of perspective.
- Enjoy solving problems; inquisitive and analytical; engaged and motivated.
- Able to work both independently and as part of a larger team.
- Ability to see the big picture and work towards that goal.
- Ability to build and manage relationships with various collaborators across and outside the institution.
The post holder will adhere to ISGlobal principles contained in People management policy, including Equity, diversity and health safety. The post holder will respect, and be accountable to ensure ISGlobal policies and procedures.
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
- Required:
- FP2 or Graduate in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology or similar areas.
- Experience in nucleic acid purification and amplification techniques (PCR, qPCR)
- Demonstrated knowledge of experimental design
- Desired:
- 3-5 years of experience in the assays to be used in the project
- Experience in next generation sequencing (targeted resequencing, whole-genome sequencing, multiplex amplicon sequencing, RNAseq or similar)
- Experience in mid-to-high throughput sample management
- Experience in RNA work
- Demonstrated success in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought.
LANGUAGE LEVEL
- Fluent in Catalan and/or Spanish and knowledge of English. All three languages are commonly used in team’s activities.
- Advanced knowledge of English and/or knowledge of Portuguese will be considered a plus.
CONDITIONS
- Duration: The post is fixed-term for 6 months (maternity cover).
- Starting date: targeted starting date is September 2025
- Contract Type: Full time (part-time availability will be considered).
- Salary: According to the ISGlobal salary scale
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants must fill in the request form and attach the CV and a Cover Letter. Each attached document must be named with the candidate name and surname.
The receipt of applications will be open until the position is filled.
The interviews could be placed during the reception of candidatures period.
Diverse candidatures are encouraged, that includes: gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical abilities, and political views.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process is designed in two phases:
1- Interview phase of a technical nature, with the team that requires the incorporation. To assess the person's skills and CV.
2 - Meeting with HR with the finalist(s) to finish assessing the profile and discuss contractual and institutional issues.
If needed any technical test could be passed. A Psychological Competency Evaluation Test will be required for the structural or transversal positions.
In accordance with the OTM-R principles, a gender-balanced recruitment panel is formed for every vacancy at the beginning of the process. After reviewing the content of the applications, the panel will start the interviews, with at least one technical and one administrative interview. A profile questionnaire as well as a technical exercise may be required during the process.
In ISGlobal we are committed to maintaining and developing a work environment in which the values and principles of our organization are respected and equal opportunities between women and men be promoted in each of the areas in which we operate, not tolerating discrimination based on criteria such as age, gender, marital status, race, ethnicity, functional diversity, political leanings, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
We confirm our commitment towards the value of the diversity of our staff and student population and seek to promote peace, equity, diversity and inclusion as essential elements in contribution to improving health worldwide.
