Vac 58 2025 - Research Assitant

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.

The Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute is looking for a **Research Assistant**to join the Epigenetic control of haematopoiesis Group, led by **Dr.**José Luis Sardina.**

**RESEARCH DESCRIPTION**

We combine CRISPR-based epigenome editing, artificial intelligence (AI), and innovative mouse models to explore the molecular drivers of blood cancers. Using CRISPR, we precisely manipulate DNA methylation at specific genomic loci, while AI helps us interpret high-dimensional datasets to predict outcomes, identify regulatory networks, and uncover hidden patterns. Our disease-relevant mouse models allow us to validate discoveries in vivo and assess the real-world impact of epigenetic alterations.

This integrative approach enables us to dissect the causal roles of DNA methylation, revealing insights into chromatin dynamics, enhancer activity, and transcriptional regulation. By decoding how aberrant transcriptional programs contribute to cancer initiation and progression, we aim to identify novel therapeutic targets and epigenetic biomarkers. Our ultimate goal is to transform patient care through precision medicine while advancing the frontiers of leukemia research.

**MAIN RESPONSABILITIES**
- Maintain AML cell lines and patient-derived xenografts (AML-PDXs) in the cell culture room.
- Genotype the mouse colony.
- Optimize the delivery of epigenome editing plasmids in AML cell lines and AML-PDXs.
- Isolate transduced/transfected cells by flow cytometry sorting.
- Extract RNA, DNA and proteins from sorted cells.
- Conduct gene expression and epigenetic analyses on purified nucleic acids.

**WHAT WE NEED**
- Degree in Biology or Biochemistry (or related field).
- MSc in Genetics and Genomics (or related)
- Previous experience with cell culture and molecular biology protocols.
- A high level of motivation and interest.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Good level of oral and written English.

**WHAT WE OFFER**
- A full-time contract. Training contract
- The opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge translational research projects in the stimulating environment of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
- The stimulating environment of the Barcelona metropolitan area.
- Opportunity for professional growth in an advanced research environment.

**DEADLINE**

**WHO WE ARE?**

**_ What makes us different?_**:
The mission of the Josep Carreras Institute is 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.
The IJC’s vision is to be a world-class reference and excellent research multicampus that contributes to the improvement of results, and the cure of patients affected by leukemia and other malignant hemopathies, through innovation, sustainability, social responsibility, talent, and professional experience.

**_ HR Excellence_**:
In 2019, IJC was honored with the “Human Resources Excellence in Research Award” by the European Commission, recognizing the alignment of our human resources policies with the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) guides research centers of excellence in implementing and upholding thes