About IBEC

IBEC – Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia – is an international biomedical research institute of excellence based in Barcelona, Spain, with more than 400 scientists from 34 countries. It is part of the CERCA Network and the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST). IBEC has been recognised three consecutive times as a Research Center of Excellence through Spain’s Severo Ochoa Programme and holds the ’HR Excellence in Research’ Award from the European Commission.

Position Overview

The IBEC is seeking a Director with a proven track record in scientific excellence, leadership, innovation, people management, organisational management and knowledge of international research systems. The Director must have full‑time dedication and a firm, deep belief in IBEC’s mission and values. The role is open to internal and external candidates and the institute is an equal‑opportunity employer that fosters a diverse, inclusive environment – female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

- Define the IBEC Strategic Plan and the research activity programme; submit them to the Board of Trustees and coordinate execution.
- Guarantee financial sustainability, securing competitive funds, private sponsors and other income sources.
- Co‑supervise the economic activities with the Administrative Director and manage scientific human resources, including selection and adscription of research positions.
- Represent IBEC at official and social events, in coordination with the President and Board members.
- Create a stimulating environment for top research in bioengineering and set the overall scientific and technological vision.
- Provide leadership for the research units and ensure excellence of all IBEC activities.
- Direct, organise, manage, execute research, training and internal organisation.
- Propose new research lines,



programmes and funding opportunities to the Board.
- Inform I‑CERCA, Generalitat de Catalunya, universities and other board members regularly about progress.
- Promote the creation of value derived from research and be an effective spokesperson to funders, politicians, journalists and others.
- Establish an internationally competitive laboratory and secure necessary resources.
- Explore and foster new national and international partnerships.
- Provide guidance to all members of the institute, especially to strategic, technology‑transfer, academic and technical departments.
- Mentor and support career development at all levels in line with IBEC’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion programme.
- Appoint and oversee Administrative Director, deputy directors, unit, service, laboratory, department, academic and programme managers, as appropriate.
- Approve internal rules of operation jointly with the Administrative Director and the Board of Trustees.
- Lead evaluations of the centre and participate in periodic CERCA evaluations and community engagement.

Qualifications

- Distinguished record of international scientific excellence.
- Exceptional leadership skills and proven capacity for effective team management.
- Committed to knowledge transfer and innovation, motivated to work with industry and able to think strategically to create and capitalise on opportunities benefitting IBEC.
- Outstanding scientific vision, integrity, communication skills, administrative abilities, energy, motivation,



consensus‑building capacity and a style that engenders trust and respect.
- Excellent people‑management skills with a commitment to developing staff to excel.
- Proven experience leading dynamic research organisations (strategic planning, resource allocation, setting priorities).
- Adept at representing the institute across academic, industrial, political and social spheres.
- In‑depth knowledge of international research systems, particularly European programmes.

Offer

Appointment is with an open‑ended contract, renewed after five years upon evaluation. The mandate can be extended by agreement of the Board of Trustees. The position comes with an international competitive salary, an attractive start‑up package and structural long‑term funding for the incoming Director’s research group, as well as state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and professional development opportunities. IBEC values work‑life balance, offering extended vacation periods and adaptable working hours.

Application Procedure

Interested applicants must send a 2‑page presentation letter, a complete CV (confidential) and reference details for three referees to Dr Laia Pellejà at Pre‑selected candidates will be asked to prepare and present a vision statement.

Selection Procedure

The Board of Trustees will appoint a selection commission from its members and the Scientific Advisory Board to shortlist candidates. Short‑listed candidates may submit a vision statement and will have a final interview with the commission. The final assessment will be presented to the Board of Trustees for appointment.

Timeline

- Call for applications opens – 8th June
- Application deadline – 20th July
- Short‑listing and interview – September – October
- Appointment approved by Board – November – December

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📌 Ibec Director (Barcelona)
🏢 ICERCA - Centres de Recerca de Catalunya
📍 Barcelona