ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences is a world-leading research center devoted to advancing the science and technologies of light. Based in Castelldefels, Barcelona, ICFO combines frontier research, education, innovation and technology transfer to generate scientific and societal impact.

Over the past two decades, ICFO has established itself as an internationally recognized center of excellence and a integral reference in photonics. Today, with a highly international community of around 500 employees representing more than 70 nationalities, ICFO continues its institutional development aimed at strengthening scientific excellence, organizational effectiveness and long-term impact.

As a public research institution, ICFO is governed by a Board of Trustees and led by an Executive Leadership comprising the Director and the Managing Director, who are responsible for the scientific, strategic and operational development of the Institute.

ICFO is seeking a Biology Lab Research Support Technician to join its Biology Lab.

Position Overview

The main responsibilities of the Biology Lab Technician will have two components:

- operation and organization of the Laboratories and common areas of the Unit, and
- provide support to the research activity of Lab users.

Key Responsibilities

The main responsibilities for this position include (but are not limited to) the following:

1. Supporting tasks in the management of the Facility:

- Assist in the registration, control and maintenance of the inventory of biological samples (mammalian cells, microorganisms, worms, model organisms, antibodies, etc.) of the Unit.
- Assist in the purchasing process, registration, supervision and maintenance of the inventory of laboratory consumables, media, reagents and chemicals, safeguarding their correct handling and storage.
- Organization and service of laboratory equipment as well as the glassware and plastic items.
- Handling and management of the biological and chemical waste generated in the Unit.
- Assist with the permanent training activities to Biology Lab users regarding safety and biosafety regulations.
- Assist with the permanent training activities regarding the use of equipment, handling of biological samples and chemicals,
- Development, implementation and vigilance of routine protocols oriented to ensuring the correct handling and disposal of biological and chemical waste generated in the Lab.

2.- Research support responsibilities:





- Perform routine culture and maintenance of mammalian cell lines, microorganisms and other model organisms.
- Perform routine breeding tasks and basic research procedures involving living animals.
- Assist in tasks related to the preparation and sterilization of culture media, buffers, reagents and additives.
- Perform routine protocols of classic and last generation biochemistry and molecular biology techniques for cloning, extraction, purification and characterization of DNA and proteins.
- Preparation of samples for high-resolution microscopy and nanoscopy techniques.
- Perform routine tasks related to the culture, handling and storage of C. elegans and other model organisms.

Essential Qualifications

- Minimum bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences (Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or similar).
- Updated official credential to work with experimental living animals (Projects and Procedures Design Function. RD 53/2013).
- Minimum B2 English Level.
- Minimum 2+ year experience in a similar position, preferably in an international research and/or academic environment.

Desired Qualifications

- Hands-on experience in classical and last generation biochemistry and molecular biology techniques.
- Hands-on experience in microorganisms and mammalian cell culture techniques.
- Hands-on experience in model organisms (mainly C. elegans) culture and handling.
- Hands-on experience in preparation of biological samples for microscopy and nanoscopy techniques.
- Experience in breeding and handling living animals, as well as experience in performing basic procedures involving living animals (euthanasia, surgery, dissection, etc.)

Personal Competencies

The successful candidates will demonstrate:

- Service orientation, initiative, proactivity, attention to detail, organizational commitment, and teamwork mentality.
- Strong organizational, planning and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-evolving international research environment.
- Strong communication skills.

What ICFO Offers

At ICFO, we offer the opportunity to contribute to the scientific,



strategic and organizational development of one of the world’s leading research institutions.

The position provides:

- a highly stimulating and international research environment;
- meaningful responsibility and autonomy;
- competitive conditions commensurate with experience and qualifications;
- a unique location in Barcelona, one of Europe’s leading scientific, cultural and innovation hubs.

Equal Opportunity

ICFO is an equal opportunity employer. We hire based solely on merit and potential, regardless of gender, nationality, or disability. ICFO fully endorses the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, ensuring a transparent and supportive recruitment process.

Conditions

The contract offered will be a permanent contract for scientific and technical activities (ACT).

This is a full-time position.

A probationary period of 6 months will apply, in accordance with ICFO’s internal labor regulations and the applicable public-sector labor framework.

A salary according to ICFO’s approved salary scales will be offered, commensurate with the level of the position and the candidate’s experience.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your:

- resume,
- a cover letter outlining your experience,
- contact information for 2 professional references.

Applications should be submitted via the ICFOjobs platform https://jobs.icfo.eu/?detail=1158

The selection process is conducted in accordance with ICFO’s Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment (OTM-R) Policy, ensuring equal opportunities, transparency, and fair treatment for all applicants. Candidates are assessed exclusively on the basis of their qualifications, experience, skills, achievements, and potential in relation to the requirements of the position. Further information on the recruitment principles and procedures, conflict of interest and the appeals mechanism available to candidates, can be found in the OTM-R Policy.

The selection process will consist of:

1. Eligibility check of applications

2. Assessment of merits (education, experience, and language)

3. Written test for pre-selected candidates to assess technical knowledge related to the job position

4. Interview with shortlisted candidates

The Evaluation Committee will include at least three members and ensure gender balance and impartiality.

Each phase will be documented, and candidates will be notified of the outcome within 15 days of the interview.

📌 Biology Lab Research Support Technician (Castelldefels)
🏢 ICFO
📍 Castelldefels