Estudiante de doctorado

Job title: PhD Candidate - Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors (2 vacancies)

Research area or group: Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors Group

Description of Group/Project:
The Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors group at ICN2 is focused on the development of cutting-edge sensors for various point-of-need applications. The group of Prof. Arben Merkoçi are internationally recognised world leaders in the development of point-of-care nanobiosensors. We are looking to employ two PhD students funded on an European Defence Fund (EDF) project that will involve the development of next generation Lateral Flow Assays (LFA) for the detection of biological threats.

Main Tasks and responsibilities:

The successful applicant will be expected to:

• Develop and design next generation Lateral Flow Assays (LFAs), incorporating cutting edge nanotechnology to improve the LFA performance.
• Synthesis and characterisation of nanomaterials to integrate into the LFAs.
• Travel to international consortia and present to other partners.
• Communicate their findings through internal reports, scientific articles, seminars and congresses.
• Be able to work both independently to drive the research forward, whilst being able to communicate and collaborate with other partners in the consortium.
• Perform relevant tasks under aseptic conditions.

Research Assistant to be hired around 6 months in the framework of the eurpean project "RESILIENCE-R-2025", Grant Agreement , funded by European Defence Fund. After 6 months, enrolment as PhD for the academic course , starting then a PhD contract.

Requirements:

• Education:
  Applicants must have a Masters degree in any relevant scientific discipline (Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Nanotechnology, etc.), or anticipate finishing before the start of this contract.
• Knowledge:

Previous experience of Lateral Flow Assay development is beneficial but not mandatory. Other relevant experience includes: nanoparticle synthesis and functionalization, biosensor development, analytical chemistry, biochemistry. Proficiency with scientific software and common lab equipment is advantageous.

• Professional Experience:

Previous laboratory experience is beneficial but not mandatory.

• Personal Competences:

We are seeking highly motivated, independent thinkers, who are well organised and willing to learn.

Summary of conditions:

• Full time work (37,5h/week)
• Contract Length: Temporary (6 months)
• Location: Bellaterra (Barcelona)
• Salary will depend on qualifications and demonstrated experience.
• Support to the relocation issues.
• Life Insurance.
• Work-Life Balance and Flexibility with flexible work schedules
• 28 holidays per year
• Flexible compensation plan: tax advantages contracting some products (health insurance, childcare, training, among others.)
• Training activities: languages, mentoring programme, wellbeing programme.
• International environment

Estimated Incorporation date: April 2026

How to apply:

All applications must be made via the ICN2 website and include the following:

1. A cover letter.
2. A full CV including contact details.
3. 2 Reference letters or referee contacts.

Application link:

Deadline for applications: 31/01/2026

Equal opportunities:

At ICN2 we foster an inclusive and safe work environment, free from any form of discrimination-whether based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, origin, culture, religion, disability, or any other personal or social condition. We are committed to ensuring equal treatment and opportunities in all our processes, especially in recruitment, which is based solely on talent, experience, and ability. We implement proactive policies for inclusion and harassment prevention that reinforce our commitment to respect and fairness. If you share these values and are looking to grow in an open and diverse environment, ICN2 is ready to welcome you.