Pre Doc “molecular Basis of The Bacterial Resistance to Antibiotics: Design of New Antibacterial Agents”

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 full-time PhD Student for the ““Molecular basis of the bacterial resistance to antibiotics: design of new antibacterial agents” group,interested in taking over and managing and support activities involving the elucidation of the mechanisms of action of the cyclic peptide PLP-3, activity studies against biofilm-forming bacteria, and evaluation of its in vivo efficacy using an animal model. The tasks will be developed in the microbiology department and research laboratory at Centre Esther Koplowitz (CEK).

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES**:
**SPECIFIC DUTIES**:

- Elucidate the mechanism of action of the peptide PLP-3 by comparison of the mutant strains versus wild-type strain.

- Investigate the potential target protein of PLP-3 using photoaffinity assays.

- Determine the activity against biofilm-forming bacteria.

**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.

**SKILLS**:

- Teamwork.

- Problem resolution.

- Learning capacity.

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**:

- Previous laboratory experience in the microbiology field.

- Experience in antimicrobial resistance and development of new antibiotics will be highly appreciated.

**SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS**:

- Three-years experience in a microbiology research laboratory

**LANGUAGE LEVEL**:

- Intermediate English Level

- Spanish and Catalan user level will be appreciated

**CONDITIONS**:

- Duration: 1 month

- Starting date: January 2026

- Contract Type: Full time

- Salary: Predoc A

**HOW TO APPLY**:
**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 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._