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.
The ISGlobal Malaria Epigenetics lab directed by ICREA Research Professor Alfred Cortés investigates the regulation of gene expression in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We use a combination of approaches that include phenotypic characterization of parasites, molecular biology, multi-omics approaches, and genome editing with CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Our ultimate goal is to generate high-quality basic knowledge that is relevant for the fight against malaria. We try to solve problems from innovative perspectives.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
ISGlobal is seeking a lab technician who is interested on working in a research project that investigates the regulation of sexual conversion in malaria parasites.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- The main tasks will be to design and perform the experiments for a project focused on the Plasmodium falciparum PfAP2-HS transcription factor, which regulates the heat-shock response.
- More specifically, a collection of transgenic P. falciparum lines with serial deletions in PfAP2-HS has already been generated by our team, and the selected candidate will work on the characterisation of these transgenic lines.
SPECIFIC DUTIES
- Phenotypic characterisation of P. falciparum transgenic lines with deletions in the PfAP2-HS transcription factor: growth phenotype, heat-shock resistance phenotype and sexual conversion phenotype
- Transcriptional characterisation of P. falciparum transgenic lines with deletions in the PfAP2-HS transcription factor: RT-qPCR and, depending on the results, RNA-seq experiments
- Analysis of PfAP2-HS binding sites in the P. falciparum transgenic lines with deletions in the PfAP2-HS transcription factor, using ChIP-qPCR and ChIP-seq
- Contribute to scientific discussion and provide support to other projects of the team
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
- Capacity to work both independently and as part of a team
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- Excellent organization and coordination skills
- Demonstrated track record of achievements
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.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS
- BSc and MSc in a discipline related with molecular and cellular biology
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
- High level of enthusiasm and motivation; passion for science!
- Previous expertise in malaria research
- Previous expertise in malaria parasite cultures, including phenotypic characterisation
- Previous expertise in transcriptional analysis of malaria parasites
- Desirable but not essential: previous expertise using ChIP-qPCR and/or ChIP-seq
- Ability to work closely with other members of the team on a highly collaborative environment
LANGUAGE LEVEL
- Proficiency in English.
CONDITIONS
- Duration: 4 months
- Starting date: September 2025
- Contract Type: Full time
- Salary: According to ISGlobal salary scales, will depend on the level of experience and qualifications
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 1st of August 2025.
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.
