Summary
The Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) is seeking a curiosity-driven and responsible predoctoral researcher to join the Innate Immune Biology laboratory led by Dr. Stefanie Wculek. This full-time PhD position focuses on investigating the immunometabolism of neutrophils in health, obesity, and metabolic diseases using cutting-edge multi-omic, metabolic, and spatial analysis techniques.
PhD Opportunity: Neutrophil Immunometabolism Research at IRB Barcelon, Spain
Designation
Predoctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate
Key Details At a Glance
| Parameter | Details |
| Reference Code | PRE/26/02 |
| Position Title | Predoctoral Researcher |
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Stefanie Wculek |
| Laboratory / Department | Innate Immune Biology Lab / A) Research Laboratories |
| Host Institution | IRB Barcelona |
| Location | Barcelona, Spain |
| Contract Type | Full-time Predoctoral Contract (with Spanish Social Security) |
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2026 |
Research Area
- Field: Biomedicine, Innate Immune Biology, & Immunometabolism
- Project Scope: Investigating the immunometabolism of neutrophils in health, obesity, and metabolic diseases through multi-omic analysis (transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenetics, metabolomics), mouse models, primary tissue cultures, human samples, multicolor flow cytometry, and multiplex spatial imaging.
Location
Barcelona, Spain (IRB Barcelona, Barcelona Science Park)
Eligibility & Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Educational Background: Must complete one of the following options by September 30, 2026:
- An official Spanish (or EHEA) university degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedicine, Biotechnology, Immunology, or related fields totaling at least 300 ECTS credits (with a minimum of 60 ECTS at the Master’s level).
- A non-EHEA university degree granting access to doctoral studies in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Physics, Medicine, or related fields in Spain.
- Knowledge Base: Sound understanding of biomedicine, biosciences, and/or immunology.
- Experience: Prior experience in research environments.
- Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Skills: Strong organizational, problem-solving, multitasking, communication, and teamwork skills.
Desirable Qualifications (Bonus)
- Knowledge of innate immunity and immunometabolism.
- Hands-on experience with bioinformatic/OMIC dataset analysis.
- Experience with mouse models of disease.
- Training in flow cytometry/sorting, multiplex immunohistochemistry, molecular biology (cloning, CRISPR), or cellular metabolic assays.
Job Description & Responsibilities
- Develop and advance an independent research project under direct supervision of the PI.
- Design, perform, and interpret experimental work using state-of-the-art approaches.
- Analyze transcriptomic, proteomic, epigenetic, and metabolomic datasets in collaboration with the bioinformatics core.
- Apply advanced methodologies including flow cytometry, cell sorting, multiplex microscopy, and metabolic assays on mouse models, primary tissues, and human samples.
- Collaborate actively with multidisciplinary internal and external teams.
- Prepare and present scientific findings at seminars, conferences, and in project reports.
How to Apply
Selection is open, transparent, and merit-based according to the European Charter for Researchers.
- Submit your application online via the official IRB Barcelona Job Portal.
- Include your CV, Motivation Letter, and summary of relevant research experience.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview before a formal offer is extended.
Last Date to Apply
August 31, 2026 (Note: If no suitable candidate is selected by this date, the deadline will be extended).
