Research technician for the AIRLAB

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 skilled, organized and motivated technician to join the AIRLAB, a laboratory established in 2019 to foster research and innovation in the analysis of outdoor and indoor air quality, both chemical and biological, and its effects on human health. The candidate will provide technical support for the day-to-day operation of the laboratory and the research projects carried out at the AIRLAB. In particular, the role will involve the extraction of nucleic acids from bioaerosol samples collected around the world and the preparation of DNA Libraries for sequencing on Illumina and Nanopore platforms. The candidate will process a high volume of sample, which requires attention to detail, the ability to work systematically whilst maintaining detailed records.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

- Extract DNA/RNA from airborne microorganisms/microbiomes for downstream analysis using next-generation sequencing
- Perform microbial cultivation, isolation and identification
- DNA Library preparation for next-generation sequencing for Illumina, PacBio and Nanopore
- Manage procurement of lab materials and reagents
- Assist with general lab maintenance and organization
- Support other research activities aligned with AIRLAB project goals
- Plan and carry out fieldwork activities involving study participants
- Coordinate with the project PI and research team

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.

This job description is not a definitive or exhaustive list of responsibilities but identifies the key responsibilities and tasks of the post holder. The specific objectives of the post holder will be subject to review as part of the individual professional assessment process.

SKILLS

- Excellent organizational and teamwork skills, with the ability to work independently
- Responsible, flexible, and solution-oriented
- Proactive, eager to learn, and able to take initiative
- Capable of setting priorities and meeting deadlines
- Adaptable and open to change
- Willingness to travel as required by the projects

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

- Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, or related fields.
- Previous experience working in a microbiology and/or molecular biology laboratory.
- Proven training and experience in DNA/RNA extraction, DNA library preparation, microbial culture and molecular techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, metagenomic sequencing).
- Experience conducting fieldwork.

LANGUAGE LEVEL

- Fluent in Spanish and Catalan (spoken and written)
- Good command of English (minimum First Certificate level)

CONDITIONS

- Contract: full time, one year contract
- Salary: According to ISGlobal internal salary scale
- Work-Life Balance: 36 days off per year (23 vacation days + 13 personal days)
- Start date: as soon as possible

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants must complete the application form and upload a CV and a Cover Letter. Each document must be clearly named with the candidate’s name and surname.

Applications will remain open until 22th of October 2026.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates may be contacted and interviewed as applications are received. Interviews may take place during the application period.

We encourage diverse applications, including but not limited to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical abilities, and political beliefs.

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 accordance with the OTM-R principles, a gender-balanced recruitment panel is formed for every vacancy at the beginning of the process. After reviewing the content of the applications, the panel will start the interviews, with at least one technical and one administrative interview. A profile questionnaire as well as a technical exercise may be required during the process.

---

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.