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 Postdoctoral researcher in Cellular Immunology to work on the research projects performed by the Malaria Immunology Group. The overall goals are to understand the mechanisms and mediators of protective immunity induced by infection and vaccines, and to identify biomarkers of disease and immunity, using multidimensional clinical, epidemiological, immunological and molecular data.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Performing studies of biomarkers and immune correlates of protection against malaria, NTDs and COVID-19 after infection or vaccination, as well as in other studies by the Malaria Immunology group. The studies are carried out in collaboration with multiple international research centers (Africa, Europe, USA, Australia). One of the studies aims at understanding the impact of malaria in pregnancy in the mother and their children using longitudinal samples from the mother and their offspring.

SPECIFIC DUTIES

• Formulate specific questions and hypothesis in the context of ongoing studies in the group, and participate in grant writing proposals

• Design and implement cellular immunology experiments

• Perform data analysis and visualization of results

• Carry out data cleaning and quality control

• Document and archive all samples and data for easy use in future research

• Prepare data reports and manuscripts

• Prepare presentation for consortium meetings

• Disseminate results in international conferences

• Participation in regular lab meetings and institutional seminars

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.

• Previous experience in project management.

• Excellent organizational skills and able to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, adapt to changing job requirements and prioritize in multiple concurrent projects.

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

PhD in biomedicine with strong expertise in analysis of cellular immunology and infectious diseases. Knowledge of data analysis and managing complex immunological datasets.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

The purpose of the position is to perform research on cellular immunology in the context of ongoing infectious diseases and vaccine studies at the Malaria Immunology group. This position will also provide support in cellular immunology analysis to other studies ongoing in the group under the supervision of the PIs. The position will require experience in cell culture, flow cytometry and other cellular immunology techniques (Met-Flow, ELIspot, Fluorospot). The position is based at ISGlobal in Barcelona.

• Experience/knowledge in analysing phenotype and function of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and cell lines

• Experience/knowledge in multiparameter flow cytometry and other related techniques

• Experience in analysis of immunological and infectious diseases data

• Knowledge of data management & statistical analysis including FlowJo and R

• Motivated researcher capable of setting and meeting deadlines and delivering research outputs to the required standard

• Strong organization and team-working and multi-tasking skills

• Professional attitude with attention to details

• Effective verbal and written communication skills

• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)

• Team player, yet capable of working autonomously, rational and critical thinker

• Interest in public health in developing countries

LANGUAGE LEVEL

Catalan/Spanish, English essential

CONDITIONS

• Contract: Full time. 2 years

• Salary: According to qualifications and experience

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

• Start date: January 2027

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 November 20th.

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.