The Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) is inviting applications from qualified and motivated candidates for a PhD Student position (Ref 52/2026) within the Rosaceae genetics and genomics group. This funded postgraduate opportunity is part of the national PANTEDIV project focused on computational genomics, structural variant analysis, and molecular biology across Prunus and Citrus accessions.
Position Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student / Postgraduate Researcher (Ref 52/2026) |
| Research Project | PANTEDIV project (PID2025-175078NB-I00) |
| Host Institution | Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) |
| Research Area | Plant Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics |
| Location | Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain |
| Contract Type | Temporary, Full-time |
| Application Deadline | November 10, 2026 |
Designation
PhD Student (Ref 52/2026) / Research Support Staff
Research Area
The research is situated within the Rosaceae Genetics and Genomics Group under the PANTEDIV project framework. Specific topics include pangenome variation graphs, structural variants (SV-GWAS), population-level sequencing (short and long reads), transcriptome and epigenetics analysis, and routine wet-lab molecular procedures.
Location
The position is hosted at the CRAG facilities on the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) Campus, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must fulfill the following educational criteria and technical qualifications:
- Education: University degree in Agronomy, Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related scientific discipline.
- English Proficiency: Advanced written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Valued Technical Experience:
- Hands-on experience in wet-lab protocols: DNA/RNA extraction and library preparation for Illumina, PacBio, and Oxford Nanopore technologies.
- Experience in computational genomics (genome assembly, structural variant detection, annotation, epigenetics, and alignment).
- Proficiency in programming languages (R, Python) and working in High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments.
- Familiarity with transposable element identification in genomic data.
- Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving aptitude, technical team collaboration, communication capabilities, and a proactive mindset.
Scholarship / Position Description
CRAG is an independent research institution established as a Consortium of CSIC, IRTA, UAB, and UB, hosting world-class infrastructure and over 200 international researchers in plant and farm animal genomics.
As part of the PANTEDIV project (PID2025-175078NB-I00 funded by MICIU/AEI), the selected PhD candidate will be responsible for:
- Extracting DNA/RNA, constructing libraries, and performing molecular biology assays.
- Constructing and evaluating pangenome variation graphs for Prunus and Citrus crops.
- Analyzing multi-accession short-read and long-read genomic datasets.
- Identifying structural variations associated with agronomic traits (SV-GWAS).
- Processing and interpreting transcriptomic and epigenetic data.
- Developing bioinformatics workflows and contributing to genomic data management.
- Participating in project meetings, conferences, and targeted field trips for sample acquisition.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should send their application via email directly to the CRAG Human Resources department at: jobs@cragenomica.es.
Your application email must reference Ref 52/2026 and include the following documents:
- An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A Letter of Motivation describing your scientific interests and relevant qualifications.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline to submit your application is November 10, 2026. Applications will be reviewed promptly following the closing date.
Apply Link
To view the official call and additional details, visit the CRAG Recruitment Portal Official Notice.
