Functional Genomics Technical Officer

Created in 2005 by the Generalitat de Catalunya (Government of Catalonia) and the University of Barcelona, IRB Barcelona is a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence—a seal that was awarded in 2011.

The institute is devoted to conducting research of excellence in biomedicine and to transferring results to clinical practice, thus improving people’s quality of life, while simultaneously promoting the training of outstanding researchers, technology transfer, and public communication of science. Its 28 laboratories and seven core facilities address basic questions in biology and are orientated to diseases such as cancer, metastasis, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and rare conditions.

IRB Barcelona is an international centre that hosts 400 members and 35 nationalities. It is located in the Barcelona Science Park. IRB Barcelona forms part of the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST) and the “Xarxa de Centres de Recerca de Catalunya” (CERCA).

**IRB Barcelona is seeking a talented technician with training, or accumulated experience, in implementation of automated workflows to join our rapidly growing Functional Genomics Core Facility**.

If you are looking to make a significant impact on the future of biotechnology and genomics, this is the perfect opportunity for you. As a Functional Genomics Core Facility Technician at IRB Barcelona, you will play a pivotal role in our research efforts by implementing automated methodologies for key laboratory processes. Your expertise will help us increase the efficiency and scalability of our existing genomics and transcriptomics workflows, ultimately accelerating groundbreaking discoveries. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to translational research projects and work with real patient-derived samples, while being part of a dynamic and collaborative team.

**DUTIES**:

- Operate and maintain state-of-the-art instruments, including liquid handlers, microfluidics devices, and tissue-to-single-cells dissociation instruments.
- Explore potential improvements of single-cell partitioning techniques for higher throughput experiments.
- Collaborate with the different IRB Barcelona research groups to ensure seamless integration of automated processes into their ongoing projects.
- Troubleshoot technical issues and perform routine maintenance to ensure the reliability and accuracy of laboratory automation systems.
- Adhere to strict quality control standards, document all procedures, and maintain detailed records of experiments.
- Stay up to date with the latest advancements in automation applied to genomics and biomedicine, contributing to the continuous improvement of laboratory workflows.

**EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS**:
**Must Have - Required**:

- Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field (Engineering, Biotechnology), equivalent advance training (FP) in automation applied to industry/research/pharma, or demonstrated accumulated practical experience.
- Strong technical background in process automation and experience scaling labour-intensive procedures.
- Proficiency in troubleshooting technical issues related to automation platforms.
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse scientific backgrounds.

**Desirable**:

- Knowledge of genomics techniques, including RNA extraction, library preparation, and single-cell analysis will be valued.
- Familiarity with laboratory automation systems and experience operating liquid handlers, preferably the Hamilton Microlab Star will be valued.
- Experience with single-cell dissociation technologies and single-cell partitioning methods (droplets or microwells) is desirable.

**WORKING CONDITIONS & ENTITLEMENTS**:

- **Working conditions**: Permanent Contract linked to the Programa de Excelencia FCAECC project. Employed in compliance with Spanish legislation and regulations under a full-time contract. Employees receive the benefits of the Spanish Social Security system covering sickness, maternity/paternity leaves and injuries at work.
- **Estimated annual gross salary**: Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- **International environment**:The opportunity to join a prestigious, diverse and inclusive international research institution and to become a member of an established research group.
- **Benefits**:Continuous training in a high-quality environment with unique professional career opportunities.

**HOW TO APPLY & SELECTION PROCESS**:

- **Number of positions available**: 1
- **Selection process**:

- **Pre-selection**: Will be based on CV, motivation letter, experience, management of research and innovation.