IC33_25 – RESEARCH ASSISTANT FOR METABOLISM RESEARCH GROUP

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Laboratory Research Assistant to join our team in a dynamic research environment. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with a wide range of biochemical and molecular biology techniques, particularly in the fields of metabolism, endocrinology, and diabetes research.

The Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases Research Group (DIAMET) is multidisciplinary and dynamic focused on studying metabolic disorders associated with diabetes mellitus morbidity and obesity. The research group is led by Dr. Sonia Fernandez-Veledo and Dr. Joan Vendrell and comprises clinical and basic researchers, technicians, and administrative support staff.

DIAMET opted to combine clinical research with animal experimentation to improve the translational nature of his research. This has been reflected not only in the increase in the quality of their publications (scientific impact) but also in their proposals’ innovative and transferable nature, which has recently materialized in creating the Spin-off Succipro S.L (impact on society).

During this time, we have implemented in their research the use of animal models of obesity, diabetes, fatty liver, and atherosclerosis (diet-induced models, transgenic mice such as db/db) and developed numerous transgenic models (global and deficient for the receptor of succinate SUCNR1 in specific cells). We have also developed animal models free of microbiota (through protocols based on broad-spectrum antibiotics) and different therapeutic strategies based on probiotics, among others.

Number of available positions:1

The selected candidate will perform the following tasks:

• Help the group’s researchers to select the best options, resources, and tools available in animal models of metabolic diseases.
• Advise on applying the requirement of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement (3Rs) and guarantee compliance by keeping researchers informed about technical advances and scientists in applying this requirement.
• Process the approval of the corresponding Animal Experimentation Ethics Committees.
• Maintenance and management of transgenic colonies.
• Updating procedures.
• Technical support for other researchers.
• Advice on matters related to the welfare of animals (acquisition, accommodation, care, and use)
• Perform biochemical, molecular biology, and histology experiments (e.g., PCR, Western Blot, cell culture).
• Assist in the design and execution of experiments related to diabetes and metabolic diseases.
• Maintain laboratory records, organize samples, and ensure proper handling of equipment.
• Analyze experimental data and contribute to scientific reports and publications.
• Collaborate with team members and contribute to a positive and efficient lab environment.

CANDIDATE  PROFILE & REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology or a related field (e.g., Biomedical Sciences), with an average grade of at least 8 out of 10.
• Holding an Animal Experimentation Certificate, or having completed the required course covering the functions a (caring), b (euthanasia), c (procedures), and d (project design) according to RD 53/2013, and currently performing the required practical training for the official accreditation of functions b and c.
• Candidates must hold a Master’s Degree in Biomedicine by the time of employment.
• Experience with cell culture techniques, PCR, Western Blot, and other molecular biology tools.
• Previous practical experience in a research lab focused on metabolism (e.g., through internships or academic research projects).
• Fluency in Spanish and Catalan (C1) and proficiency in English (B2 level or higher).
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work independently.

IT WILL BE VALUED

• The ability for personal relationships.
• Organizational skills.
• Motivation, creativity, initiative, and proactive attitude.
• Ability for continuous learning, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Commitment to quality, optimization of resources, and achievement of results.
• A strong academic record will be highly valued.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

• Selection of CV’s. Suitable and unsuitable CVs will be identified according to the requirements. Applicants who do not meet the requirements indicated in the candidate profile and requirements will not pass to the next phase.
• Evaluation of the CV. Assessment of the CVs up to a maximum score of 60 points, including consideration of the candidate’s academic record, which will be valued in the evaluation.

To access the interview phase, it is necessary to have obtained a minimum score of 50 points in the sum of scores of the evaluation of the curriculum and academic records

• Personal interview. With a maximum score of 40 points.

The selected person must have obtained a minimum score of 80 points in the sum of the scores of the assessment of all phases of the selection procedure.

SELECTION COMMITTEE

• President: Sonia Fernández Veledo. (Group Leader)
• Chair 1: Joan Vendrell. (Group Leader)
• Chair 2: Victòria Ceperuelo. (Principal Investigator)

SUBSTITUTES:

• President: Ana Megía. (Principal Investigator)
• Chair 1: Lídia Cedó. (Principal Investigator)
• Chair 2: Ana Madeira (Postdoctoral Researcher)

CANDIDACIES

• The CV must include the DNI/NIE number or personal identity document number.
• Send your CV and Academic Records through the form that you will find on the bottom of the offer page https://www.iispv.cat/treballa-amb-nosaltres/

For any questions or queries: recruitment@iispv.cat

DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF CV 21/05/2025

COMMUNICATIONS

The IISPV will notify the candidates of the results of the different phases of the selection process through its website.

HR EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH

The IISPV will guarantee the right to equal opportunities and treatment, as well as the real and effective exercise of rights by people with disabilities on equal terms with other citizens, through the promotion of personal autonomy, universal accessibility, access to employment, inclusion in the community and independent living and the eradication of any form of discrimination.  in accordance with Articles 9.2, 10, 14 and 49 of the Spanish Constitution and the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the international treaties and agreements ratified by Spain.

In the event of a tie, priority will be given to hiring the person with a disability.

In the event of a tie between people of different genders, the person of the least represented gender in the work group/department/service in which they join will be hired.

The IISPV has the European accreditation The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R), complies with the general principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the recruitment of researchers.