We are currently seeking a PhD candidate to join the Arbovirus and mosquito vectors Research Line of the Animal Health Program, based at IRTA-CReSA (Bellaterra, Barcelona) . We offer the opportunity to be part of an organization with a dynamic, collaborative work environment focused on professional development.

The selected candidate will have the opportunity to develop a PhD project within a European research project funded under Horizon Europe. The research activities will focus on mosquito – virus interactions, contributing to the improvement of knowledge on vectorial capacity and vector competence of European mosquito vectors for several circulating arboviruses such as West Nile virus and Usutu virus. The candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment combining vector biology, virology, entomology and molecular biology.

Key researchers for the position: Dr. Núria Busquets, Principal Investigator.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

- Contribute to the scientific and technical activities of Arbovirus and mosquito vectors research Line, conducted under appropriate biosafety conditions, including work in BSL-3 facilities after completion of the required training.
- Participate in the design, planning and execution of experimental studies to achieve the milestones of the research project associated with the candidate's PhD.
- Conduct literature reviews and stay updated on advances in virus-mosquito interactions.
- Perform laboratory work including mosquito rearing and experimental infections, molecular and virological techniques.
- Generate, analyse and interpret scientific data, and contribute to the research outputs of the group.
- Contribute to the preparation of scientific reports, conference communications and peer-reviewed scientific publications.
- Present research findings at internal seminars and at national and international scientific conferences.
- Participate actively in scientific discussions, group meetings and collaborative research activities.
- Foster teamwork and contribute to a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.




- Participate in training activities associated with the doctoral programme.

Required qualifications and experience

- Bachelor's degree in Veterinary Medicine and/or Master's degree in life sciences that meet the academic requirements to access a doctoral program in Spain.
- Demonstrated interest in arbovirus diseases and vector biology research.
- Knowledge of laboratory techniques applicable to biological and biomedical research.
- Good command of spoken and written English.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills, the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary research environments, and a commitment to continuous professional development.
- Motivation, scientific curiosity and commitment to research excellence.

Desirable requirements

- Laboratory experience in mosquito rearing, microbiology and/or molecular biology techniques
- Familiarity with biosafety procedures and laboratory work in containment facilities (BSL-3 experience will be positively valued).
- Previous training in mosquito-pathogen interactions and mosquito behaviour.
- Experience in data analysis and scientific writing.
- Experience or willingness to work in BSL-3 facilities.
- Knowledge of statistics and/or bioinformatics
- Knowledge of Catalan and/or Spanish
- Ability to work independently while maintaining effective collaboration within a research team.

Advantages of joining our team:

- Contract: 4 years
- Salary in 14 payments:

First and second year: 19,656,35€/gross per year Third year: 21,060,37€/gross per year

Fourth year: 26,325,47€/gross per year

Subject to the corresponding withholdings, pursuant to prevailing regulations, and to the collective employment agreement of IRTA.



IRTA will also pay the doctoral school fees upon enrolment.

- 37.5 hour workweek, with Friday afternoons off
- Intensive work schedule from 15/06 to 15/09
- 23 vacation days
- 3 days of family & work conciliation
- 45 hours of personal days
- Remote work 6 workdays per month
- Adaptable 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 send your CV and motivation letter.

Equal treatment and equal opportunities are guaranteed for all candidates in the selection process, avoiding stereotypes, bias or barriers linked to gender, sexual orientation, origin, age, ideology, or any other potentially discriminatory condition. The organization also ensures inclusion commitment toward vulnerable groups, and the first round of the selection process is reserved for candidates with functional diversity.

Timings in the Recruitment 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: October 2026 (approximately)

(1) The financial remuneration of the PhD Candidate contract may not be less than 56% of the salary established for the category of Research Collaborator F of the Collective Agreement of the IRTA during the first two years, 60% in the third year and 75% in the fourth.

📌 PhD Candidate in Arbovirus and mosquito vectors (Sardañola del Vallés)
🏢 IRTA
📍 Sardañola del Vallés