Organisation/Company: Universitat Internacional de Catalunya

Department: Medicine

Research Field: Biological sciences

Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)

Positions: PhD Positions

Country: Spain

Application Deadline: 1 Aug 2025 - 00:00 (Europe/Madrid)

Type of Contract: Permanent

Job Status: Full-time

Hours Per Week: 37.5

Offer Starting Date: 1 Sep 2025

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer DescriptionGroup Description

The Comparative Cell Biology Lab (Najle Lab), at Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC), investigates the molecular underpinnings of cellular and organismal complexity from functional and evolutionary perspectives.

Our research combines molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, and functional genomics, focusing on a diverse range of model systems spanning unicellular eukaryotes (protists) to simple multicellular organisms, such as early-branching animals.

Position Description

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our lab and explore the biology of placozoans, the simplest free-living animals.

Building on foundational work by Najle et al.

2023 [link], this project aims to uncover the mechanisms governing multicellular organization in these animals with minimal structural complexity.

The research will leverage cutting-edge approaches, including advanced microscopy, perturbation assays, and single-cell omics technologies to unravel the functional role of placozoa-specific cell types.

This position provides an exciting opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the field of evolutionary cell biology.

In addition to research, the position involves participation in teaching activities, offering valuable experience in academic development and instruction.

The position will be fully-funded for four years and is expected to start in September 2025.

Requirements:A Master's degree (or near completion) in Biology, Biomedicine, Genetics, Biotechnology or a related field.A strong interest in advancing research in non-conventional model systems and developing innovative tools.Experience in basic molecular biology is essential.

Familiarity with confocal microscopy is highly desirable, and basic bioinformatics skills (e.g., R, python) will be a plus.Motivation to engage in teaching activities, as the position includes teaching responsibilities.Fluency in English, strong organizational skills, and a proactive, enthusiastic, and curious mindset.Where to applyE-mail: ****** Additional InformationWhat we offer:

• A supportive research environment with personalized mentorship and guidance.
• Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines within a focused academic setting.
• Access to advanced tools and techniques.
• Professional development opportunities, including teaching experience.
  
  

Selection ProcessTo Apply, Please Submit a Single PDF Containing

Your CV, including the contact details of 2-3 references.

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