The Research Group on Aging, Frailty and Care
Transitions in Barcelona (REFiT-BCN) offers a technical position
for a Qualitative Research Technician. Research topic:
Vulnerabilities and resilience of older people in the urban
environment during heat waves. HEAT BCN Project summary: The
increase in the frequency and intensity of heat waves as a result
of the climate crisis has an impact on the health and quality of
life, especially of vulnerable groups such as the elderly, and in
urban contexts. Despite the policies and resources promoted in
recent years in the city of Barcelona, and the creation of the
network of climate shelters, the combination of physiological,
socioeconomic, or gender factors still configures a differential
vulnerability. The HEAT-BCN project aims to analyse these factors
by generating actionable evidence based on the analysis of the
relationship with the environment and the social determinants of
health of elderly users of the CAPs of four Basic Health Areas
(ABS): Gràcia-La Salut, Barceloneta and Vila Olímpica. HEAT-BCN is
part of the European project ISMED-CLIM ( https://ismed-clim.eu/ )
in which an intervention based on a technological tool that
provides personalised alerts and recommendations will be validated
in real contexts. HEAT-BCN will implement new actions that will
provide relevant information on the vulnerabilities, needs, and
coping strategies of elderly people facing heat, and at the same
time facilitate the implementation of the proposed solutions. We
will use a mixed methodology design and a participatory-action
research approach including: The collection of prospective data on
heat exposure and its effects on physical activity, sleep quality
and social relationships; ethnographic observation methods to
understand the experience, behaviours and coping strategies of the
participants; and focus groups with older people and community
agents to explore the use of city spaces, not only as “thermal”
protection spaces but also as places of socialisation. In parallel,
we will design a survey to analyse the social determinants of
health and the use of city resources and spaces. We will end with a




process of collective reflection to generate new ideas and
proposals for improvement. Education and qualifications: Required:
Bachelor’s Degree, with outstanding academic qualifications, in
health or social sciences. Master’s Degree, with outstanding
academic qualification, in health or social sciences. Fluency in
Catalan, Spanish, English (business level). Experience and
knowledge: Required: Experience on promoting processes of
co-creation, development, implementation of innovation aimed at
promoting healthy aging. Experience in leading participative
processes and dynamics with end users and other agents concerned,
as well as the facilitation of communities of practices.
Proficiency in both communicating clearly and active listening,
during qualitative procedures. Desired: Qualitative assessment and
interpretation of results. Preparation of scientific manuscripts
and dissemination activities for the general public. Main
responsibilities and duties: Coordination of the field work of the
HEAT project. Lead processes of co-creation and co-design regarding
healthy aging strategies dealing with heat waves and older adults.
Leading dynamics with end users, to create toolkits and communities
of practices. Writing scientific manuscripts and dissemination
activities. Organising follow up meetings. Labour conditions:
Full-time position: 37,5h/week Starting date: 1st March 2027 Gross
annual salary: 33.500,00€ (Salary ranges are consistent with our
Collective Agreement pay scale) Contract : Technical and scientific
activities contract linked to the project activities Contract
duration: 22 months What can we offer? Incorporation to Vall
d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), a public sector institution
that promotes and develops the biomedical research, innovation and




teaching at Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), the biggest
hospital of Barcelona and the largest of Catalan Institute of
Health (ICS). A scientific environment of excellence, highly
dynamic, where high-end biomedical projects are continuously
developed. Continuous learning and a wide range of responsibilities
within a stimulating work environment. Individual training
opportunities. Flexible working hours. 23 days of holidays + 9
personal days. Adaptable Remuneration Program (including dining
checks, health insurance, transportation and more) Corporate
Benefits: platform through which you can obtain significant
discounts on travel, culture, technology, gastronomy, sports...
among many others. Healthy Offering: choose from a variety of
wellbeing focused activities to be the healthiest you.
International Mobility Support (Welcome Services): We aim to make
your arrival in Barcelona smooth and pleasant by providing city
information, guidance on required procedures, access to the
International Welcome Desk, family recommendations, and support in
finding accommodation Deadline to apply: 24-02-2026 How We Hire:
Pre-selection: Candidates are shortlisted based on their skills,
qualifications, and relevant experience as outlined in their CVs.
Interviews: Meetings may be held with Talent Acquisition and/or the
hiring manager. Practical assessment: Depending on the role,
candidates may complete a case study, technical task, presentation,
or written exercise, on-site or remotely. Checks: Education,
references, and other job-related verifications may be carried out.
Job offer: The selected candidate receives a formal job offer upon
successful completion of the process. VHIR embraces Equality and
Diversity. As reflected in our values we work toward ensuring
inclusion and equal opportunity in recruitment, hiring, training,
and management for all staff within the organization, regardless of
gender, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, gender
identity and expression, religion, age, functional diversity or
ethnicity. Amb el suport de l'Ajuntament de
Barcelona.

📌 Qualitative Research Technician (Research on aging, frailtyand transitions in Barcelona) (Cataluña)
🏢 VHIR
📍 Cataluña