We are currently seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Reverse Genetics and Vaccine Development - Classical Swine Fever Line (IRTA-CReSA, Barcelona) to join our Classical swine fever research line in the Animal Health Program located in IRTA-CReSA, Bellaterra, Barcelona, offering a great opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment within our organization.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop recombinant DIVA vaccines against RNA viruses using reverse genetics and to conduct studies on viral virulence and virus–host interactions. The role is embedded in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and collaborative environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and an active international research network. At IRTA-CReSA, you’ll be part of a leading European institute in animal health and zoonosis research, with the privilege of contributing to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Laboratory for Classical Swine Fever. 

You will join a team that combines scientific excellence, creativity, and a strong sense of mission to improve global animal health.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and execute research activities on Classical Swine Fever (CSF) and related viral diseases, including the planning, implementation, and analysis of experimental and diagnostic studies, with an expected duration of 1.5 years. 

• Apply reverse genetics for the development of recombinant RNA viruses and design of DIVA vaccine strategies.

• Maintain high scientific standards in laboratory procedures, data integrity, and biosafety practices, ensuring compliance with institutional and international regulations.

• Conduct literature reviews, manage data collection and analysis, and perform statistical evaluations to support robust scientific conclusions.

• Provide scientific input and expertise for ongoing and future research projects, fostering innovation and methodological improvement.

• Assist in the preparation of scientific publications, dissemination materials, and activities related to the valorisation and technology transfer of research outcomes.

• Lead or contribute to the preparation of competitive funding proposals for public and private sources, and manage the corresponding reporting processes.

• Supervise and mentor students, supporting their scientific development and ensuring high-quality training.

• Represent the research group in national and international scientific conferences, strengthening IRTA-CReSA’s visibility and collaborative networks.

• Participate actively in the activities of the WOAH Reference Laboratory for Classical Swine Fever, contributing to its international mission.

• Contribute to team integration, collaborative initiatives, and a positive, solution-oriented work environment within the Animal Health Program.

Required qualifications and experience

• PhD in Veterinary Sciences, Animal Health, Biomedical Sciences, or Biotechnology, with a strong foundation in virology and immunology.

• Proven research record in the diagnosis, prevention, pathogenesis, and viral evolution of CSFV and/or ASFV, supported by publications in SCI-indexed journals.

• Documented international mobility, including active participation in academic conferences, workshops, or research stays abroad.

• Hands-on experience with animal experiments and in vitro assays, including the use of primary cell cultures.

• Proficiency in virology and molecular biology techniques, such as virus production and titration, microscopy, PCR, sequencing, and immunological assays (e.g., flow cytometry, functional studies).

• Expertise in reverse genetics for RNA viruses, including the generation of mutant variants, sequencing, and sequence analysis.

• Knowledge of animal viral diseases and their epidemiological and immunopathological aspects.

• Knowledge of English at a professional level (spoken and written). Knowledge of Spanish and/or Catalan will be positively valued.

• Strong teamwork skills, with the ability to adapt to multidisciplinary environments and maintain a focus on continuous professional growth and development.

• Other soft skills: excellent organizational and communication abilities, critical thinking, problem-solving orientation, initiative, and a proactive attitude toward collaborative research and innovation.

Desirable requirements

• Experience with advanced molecular techniques: cloning, CRISPR/Cas systems, transfections/transductions, infectious clones, RNAseq, and phylogenetic analyses.

• Knowledge of advanced immunology methods for studying viral pathogenesis.

• Understanding of research valorisation and technology transfer processes.

Advantages of joining our team:

• Contract: associated with a scientific-technical activity linked to contracts with vaccine efficacy study within the Classical Swine Fever Line. 
• 37.5 hour workweek, with Friday afternoons off
• Intensive work schedule from 15/06 to 15/09
• 22 vacation days
• 3 days of family & work conciliation
• 45 hours of personal days
• Flexible Schedule for a good work-life balance.
• Continuous training and professional growth opportunities.

Please know that if you are the chosen candidate and you are from a country which does not belong to the UE, IRTA’s People Department will support you to get the residence and working permits.

Instructions to Apply

If you wish to be considered for this position and believe you meet the requirements,  please submit your application through the form available at the bottom of this page.

Equal treatment and opportunities are guaranteed for all candidates in the selection process, avoiding any stereotypes, attitudes, or obstacles based on gender, origin, age, ideology, or other potentially discriminatory conditions. Furthermore, commitments to the inclusion of vulnerable groups are considered, with priority given in the first round to disabled candidates.

Selection Process:

Curricular assessment: The candidate’s qualifications and merits will be evaluated according to the criteria established in the job offer.

 Interview(s): These will be conducted by a Selection Committee to assess the candidate’s suitability in terms of professional experience and competencies.

Additional tests (if applicable): Depending on the position profile and the needs of the process, specific competency-based tests and/or a psychometric test may be included in order to more accurately assess the suitability of the candidates.

Start of contract: Second half of January 2026 (approximately)