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 Laboratory Technician to manage and conduct research focused on characterizing the phenotype and underlying biology of engineered Plasmodium falciparum mutants with altered sugar nucleotide metabolic pathways. This work involves studying both the asexual and sexual blood stages of the parasite. The primary goal is to identify key metabolic targets in P. falciparum related to the biosynthesis of sugar precursors and gain deeper insights into malaria parasite biology. Additionally, the hired person will contribute to the submission of results for peer review and publication, as well as prepare data for rebuttal.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Culture and tight synchronization of parasites under different treatment regimens (for specific gene disruption)
• Biochemical and molecular analyses of asexual and sexual stages of treated/untreated parasites, to describe the molecular basis of the specific phenotypes observed
• Prepare presentations describing main results, draft, submit and review manuscripts, etc
• Carry out supervised & independent research on parasite biochemistry and molecular biology

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Tasks required by the research carried out at the laboratory (P. falciparum in vitro culture, molecular and biochemistry techniques, genetic manipulation of Plasmodium parasites, etc)

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

• Teamwork.
• Problem resolution.
• Learning capacity.

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

• Degree in Biology/Biochemistry or similar. Master’s degree in parasitology, biochemistry, biotechnology or related.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Degree & MSc in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology or similar
• Self-motivation and perseverance
• Advanced training in parasitology/P. falciparum laboratory techniques (CRISPR-Cas9 based genetic engineering, biochemistry, immunofluorescence techniques, Flow cytometry-assisted parasite analysis…)
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Computer skills (Windows, Microsoft Office, Statistics and Bioinformatics)

LANGUAGE LEVEL

• Proficiency in Catalan, English, and Spanish.

CONDITIONS

• Duration: 3 months
• Starting date: 01/04/2025
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: 20.000€ / 22.000€ gross annual

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 27th of March 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.