OFFER_150_ Technical Specialist
The Institute of Biophysics (IBF) is a joint research center of the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). In collaboration with Fundación Biofísica Bizkaia (FBB), the center advances knowledge on the physical and chemical processes underlying biology and disease. With FBB accredited as a Basque Excellence Research Centre (BERC) by the Basque Government, the IBF–FBB partnership enjoys a strong national and international reputation and provides outstanding shared facilities for advanced biophysical and structural biology research in a new building on the main UPV/EHU Leioa campus.
Position and Project Description
We are offering a Technical Specialist position to join RGNcestry (Tracing and harnessing the ancestry of RNA-guided nucleases), a project funded by the European Research Council (ref. ERC-2025-SyG – 101225153). The position is integrated into The RNA Pirate Republic Lab at the IBF (Leioa), under the supervision of Prof. Israel S. Fernández.
The successful candidate will join a cutting-edge ERC research environment and receive hands-on training in electron cryo-microscopy (cryoEM) techniques applied to the study of translation initiation mechanisms. The work will involve participation in sample preparation, data acquisition, and support in structure determination of IRES–ribosome complexes.
This position is designed as a training-oriented role, ideal for candidates who have recently completed a degree and are starting a Master’s program, and who are interested in developing expertise in structural biology and cryoEM. Full training will be provided within the group.
The ideal candidate will have a background in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or related fields, and strong motivation to develop skills in structural biology and biophysical techniques. Previous laboratory experience is beneficial but not strictly required.
The maximum duration of the contract is until 31-03-2029.
Required Background and Qualifications
– Degree in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biology or related fields.
– Interest in structural biology and biophysical techniques.
– Motivation to learn cryoEM workflows and experimental laboratory work.
– Previous laboratory experience is a plus but not mandatory.
Benefits Of Joining Biofisika Institute
– International research environment with diverse backgrounds
– Access to state-of-the-art facilities in super-resolution and force microscopy
– Strong interdisciplinary collaboration across research areas
– Opportunities for professional development (workshops, seminars, conferences)
– Integration in a collaborative project between two specialized laboratories.
Application Process
IBF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.
Applications should be submitted through the Biofisika website contact page using the following subject: [Job Application: 150_ Technical Specialist Position].
Applications should include a single PDF file with:
– Curriculum Vitae
Deadline: 12.06.2026
Applications are reviewed upon arrival, so early submission is encouraged.