The VHIR Clinical Neuroimmunology Research Group / Cemcat is seeking a highly motivated candidate to join our team and undertake a PhD thesis.

Further information about our research group can be found at:

· VHIR Clinical Neuroimmunology Research Group: https://vhir.vallhebron.com/ca/recerca/neuroimmunologia-clinica

· Cemcat : https://www.cem-cat.org

The successful candidate will work on the project “Deciphering the Pathogenic Mechanisms of EBV-Infected B Cells in Multiple Sclerosis (DECODE-MS)”.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate to undertake a PhD project aimed at understanding the mechanisms by which Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) may contribute to the development and onset of multiple sclerosis (MS).

The successful candidate will apply to the “Amics del VHIR PhD Call 2026” and, if awarded the fellowship, will investigate the pathogenic role of EBV-infected B cells, with particular emphasis on the earliest stages of the disease.

The project combines immunological, molecular and cellular approaches with advanced human experimental models to improve our understanding of EBV-driven mechanisms involved in multiple sclerosis.

Main responsibilities and duties:

Perform the phenotypic and molecular characterisation of EBV-infected B cells isolated from peripheral blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples.
Carry out cellular and molecular biology experiments, including B-cell isolation and culture, flow cytometry and molecular analyses.
Generate and characterise spontaneous lymphoblastoid cell lines (SLCLs) and investigate their functional and pathogenic properties.
Investigate products derived from EBV-infected B cells, including antibodies and extracellular vesicles, and assess their effects in human experimental models.
Analyse and interpret experimental data.
Present research findings at group meetings, scientific conferences and other scientific events.
Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts and research publications.

Education and qualifications:

Required:

University degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Immunology or a related field within the health or life sciences.
An official university Master’s degree providing access to a PhD programme and meeting the eligibility requirements of the Amics del VHIR PhD Call 2026.
A minimum average grade of 8.5/10 in both the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
A good command of written and spoken English.

Experience and knowledge:

Desirable:

Academic or research background in immunology, molecular biology, cell biology, virology or neuroimmunology.
Previous laboratory experience working with human biological samples and/or mammalian cell cultures.
Experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, immunofluorescence or related methodologies.
Experience with flow cytometry and/or immune cell phenotyping will be highly valued.
Previous experience in B-cell biology, Epstein–Barr virus, extracellular vesicles or omics approaches will be considered an advantage.
A strong interest in translational research and in understanding the mechanisms underlying multiple sclerosis and virus-associated autoimmunity.
Enthusiasm for scientific research, together with critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Good organisational skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
A proactive, rigorous and responsible approach to scientific research.

Labour conditions:

Working hours: Full-time (37,5 hours per week).
Starting date: January – March 2027.
Gross annual salary: According to the conditions established in the Amics del VHIR PhD Call 2026.
Contract type: According to the conditions established in the Amics del VHIR PhD Call 2026.

What can we offer?

Incorporation into the Vall d’Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), a public sector institution that promotes and develops biomedical research, innovation and teaching at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), the largest hospital in Barcelona and the largest within the Catalan Institute of Health (ICS).
A dynamic scientific environment of excellence, where cutting-edge biomedical projects are continuously developed.
Continuous learning and career development pathways.
Flexible working hours.
23 days of annual leave plus 9 personal days.
Flexible remuneration programme, including meal vouchers, health insurance, transport and more.
Corporate benefits platform, offering significant discounts on travel, culture, technology, gastronomy, sports and more.
Healthy offering– “Feel Good, Feel VHIR”: VHIR’s wellbeing programme offers a variety of activities to help staff thrive—physically, mentally, and socially. Through four pillars—Feel Well, Feel Connected, Feel Empowered, Feel Welcomed—it fosters health, growth, and community.
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 support and assistance with finding accommodation.

Deadline to apply: 26-08-2026

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.

Information on Personal Data Protection:
Data Controller: Fundació Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca -VHIR-. Purpose: Personnel selection. Legal Basis: Your consent. Data retention period: One year. If you are selected, as long as the employment relationship is in force and legal responsibilities may arise. Data sharing: Does not occur, except for communications necessary to fulfill the purpose and those required by law to public and private bodies. Rights: You can access, rectify, delete, object to, and limit the processing of data, as well as request data portability where applicable, by contacting lopd@vhir.org. DPO: dpd@ticsalutsocial.cat. More information: www.vhir.org
Data Protection Authority: APDCAT

PhD Researcher (Clinical Neuroimmunology)