Vac 86 2025 - Laboratory Technician in Trainee (Cancer Metabolism Group)

The Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC) is a comprehensive **cancer research center** dedicated to conduct research and drive innovation in the epidemiological, preventive, clinical, translational, and basic aspects of leukaemia and other hematologic malignancies, with the final aim of finding a cure for these diseases. It was created in 2010, and since then has experienced an exponential growth.

The IJC is also part of the network of Excellence Research Centers of Catalonia **(CERCA)** and was accredited as a **Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence** by the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities in 2024. Since 2018, the Institute has also been accredited by the Scientific Foundation of the Spanish Association Against Cancer **(FCAECC)** Additionally, IJC is one of the centers integrated into the Institut de Recerca Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP) accreditation as Accredited Health Research Institute (IIS) by the Carlos III Health Institute **(ISCIII)**.

The IJC's main headquarters is located within the Can Ruti Biomedical Campus, alongside other leading biomedical institutions, providing direct access to cutting-edge scientific and technological facilities, as well as complementary community services. The IJC has **six locations integrated into reference hospitals**: Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Hospital Clínic, Hospital Sant Pau, Hospital Josep Trueta, Hospital del Mar and Hospital San Joan de Déu. This facilitates close collaboration between basic and clinical researchers, fostering translational research that integrates basic science with clinical practice in clinical settings.

We are looking for a **Laboratory Technician in Trainee** to join the Cancer metabolism group, led by Dr. Lucas Blas Pontel.

**RESEARCH DESCRIPTION**

Cancer is a major global health concern and understanding its underlying mechanisms is essential for developing effective treatments. Cancer cells undergo genetic and epigenetic changes, activating oncogenes and silencing tumor suppressor genes. These malignant cells also exhibit metabolic reprogramming for obtaining energy and nutrients differently than normal cells, granting them a growth advantage. To sustain this uncontrolled growth, cancer cells depend on robust antioxidant defenses, primarily provided by abundant nucleophilic molecules such as glutathione (GSH).

This project is focused on investigating and harnessing the functions of cellular nucleophilic metabolites, such as glutathione and cysteine, in the protection of the cancer genome and in the maintenance of the epigenome in cancer cells. Our endeavor involves the implementation of comprehensive genome-wide omics methodologies, including pooled CRISPR/screens within cellular models representative Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Through this research, we aim to pioneer novel therapeutic strategies that trigger cell death in leukemic cells by precisely targeting metabolic pathways integral to defense mechanisms against detrimental metabolites.

**MAIN RESPONSABILITIES**
- Establish and maintain cellular models relevant for the aim of the project.
- Contribute to carry out CRISPR/Cas9 genome-wide screenings.
- Assist in lab organization tasks like inventory tracking, reagent preparation, and supply ordering.
- Collect and record experimental data, ensuring meticulous record-keeping and data quality.
- Engage in literature reviews to stay updated on relevant advancements.
- Collaborate effectively with the research team, contributing to lab meetings and discussions.
- Seize opportunities for skill development and scientific growth.

**WHAT WE NEED**
- Degree in Medical Biochemistry (or related field).
- MSc in Medical Biochemistry (or related field) is a plus.
- A high level of motivation and interest in biomedical research.
- International experience demonstrated through research stays will be strongly valuated.
- Experience in CRISPR screens, molecular biology, biochemistry and cellular biology.
- Additional work in cancer metabolism and hemato-oncology.
- The contract must be linked to the most recent qualification obtained, and no more than 3 years must have passed since its completion.
- Great organizational abilities, attention to detail and team-oriented skills.
- Responsibility, proactivity, and self-motivation: ability to work in autonomy as well as supervised.
- Fluent English, both spoken and written (please submit all documentation in English).
- Commitment to an equity, diversity and inclusion-based, international working environment.

**WHAT WE OFFER**
- Temporary position (Training contract)
- Full time contract of 39 hours per week
- **Este contrato es parte del proyecto PID2022-136694NB-I00 financiado por MICIU/AE/10.13039/501100011033 y por FEDER, UE**:

- A training plan with continuous work-learning activities, progress tracking, and mentoring.
- Measures to reconcile work and family life (flexible work schedule, 23 working days of vacation and 9 days for personal matters).
- Fle