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:

Main responsibilities and duties:

Labour conditions:

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.

• Flexible 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.