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 skilled, organized and motivated research technician to join the GreyWaterBCN: Reused Water in Barcelona: Evaluation of Microbiological Risks and Antimicrobial Resistance in Treated Greywater. GreyWaterBCN is the first comprehensive study to evaluate how different greywater treatment technologies impact the microbiological composition and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles of toilet-treated greywater and the aerosols generated during its reuse for irrigation. The project aims to assess potential health risks associated with greywater reuse, while generating evidence to support the safe and effective implementation of greywater reuse systems in Barcelona, contributing to environmental sustainability, public health, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and future uses for treated greywater.

The successful candidate will provide technical support for both field and laboratory activities within the project and contribute to the daily operation of the AIRLAB research facility.

This position will be covered by the GreyWaterBCN project (2025_OVT_280016), funded by the Ajuntament de Barcelona through the “Projectes de recerca i innovación. Convocatòria de subvencions 2025”.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct field air sampling campaigns.

• Perform microbiological culture, isolation, and identification of environmental microorganisms.

• Extract DNA from environmental samples and prepare sequencing libraries for next-generation sequencing.

• Manage laboratory stocks, procurement of consumables, and sample inventories.

• Contribute to the general maintenance and organization of the laboratory.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Prepare sampling materials and participate in field campaigns, including sample collection, transport, registration, and storage.

• Perform microbiological and molecular laboratory protocols following established SOPs, including DNA extraction and library preparation.

• Process and document laboratory data, maintain accurate laboratory records, and contribute to data management and quality control.

• Assist in maintaining laboratory equipment, preparing reagents and culture media, and ensuring compliance with biosafety and quality standards.

• Support research staff in routine experimental activities and other project-related laboratory tasks.

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

• Excellent organizational and teamwork skills, with the ability to work independently.

• Responsible, flexible, and solution-oriented.

• Proactive, eager to learn, and able to take initiative.

• Strong attention to detail and good laboratory practice.

• Capable of setting priorities and meeting deadlines.

• Adaptable and open to change.

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

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental sciences, Biotechnology, Microbiology or related fields.

• Previous experience working in a microbiology and/or molecular biology laboratory.

• Hands-on experience with microbial culture techniques and molecular biology methods (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, library preparation).

• Experience handling environmental samples will be considered an asset.

LANGUAGE LEVEL

• Fluent in Spanish (spoken and written).

• Knowledge of Catalan will be considered an asset.

• Good command of English (spoken and written).

CONDITIONS

• Contract: 10 months, full time

• Salary: According to ISGlobal internal salary scale

• Work-Life Balance: 36 days off per year (23 vacation days + 13 personal days)

• Start date: as soon as possible

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must complete the application form and upload a CV and a Cover Letter. Each document must be clearly named with the candidate’s name and surname.

Applications will remain open until 6th of July.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates may be contacted and interviewed as applications are received. Interviews may take place during the application period.

We encourage diverse applications, including but not limited to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical abilities, and political beliefs.

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.