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Postdoctoral researcher - Patient-derived cancer models
Postdoctoral position
Application deadline: 26 Aug 2026
Institute: Biogipuzkoa Health Reserach Institute
Country: Spain
More information: https://cipitrialab.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FORTALECE-Postdoc.pdf
The Cipitria Lab – Bioengineering in Regeneration and Cancer at Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, San Sebastián (https://cipitrialab.com) is looking for a full-time postdoctoral researcher, with expertise in complex 3D culture models and experience with primary cell cultures, to develop advanced patient-derived breast cancer models, investigate tumor evolution and therapeutic responses in physiologically relevant environments. You will be working at the interface of bioengineering, translational oncology, immunology, and personalized medicine, contributing to the development of novel technologies for cancer research and treatment. The project is embedded within the multicenter clinical circuit MATRIXinCANCER, which integrates the departments of radiology, breast unit, pharmacy, medical oncology, pathology, traumatology, and other supporting services. Biogipuzkoa is located within the University Hospital Donostia - Onkologikoa healthcare and research network.
Your tasks: -Integrate patient-derived samples and data into preclinical models with translational potential. -Contribute to the design, optimization and validation of bioengineering and advanced 3D culture. -Participate in sample processing, primary cell culture maintenance, record keeping and data management. -Work closely with members of the MATRIXinCANCER clinical circuit and collaborate with multidisciplinary researchers in bioengineering, cell biology, oncology, and data science. -Design and conduct studies to evaluate responses to advanced therapies. -Apply advanced techniques in cell culture, biomaterials, bioengineering, and image analysis. -Analyze and interpret experimental results using quantitative and computational approaches. -Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations and grant proposal preparation. -Participate in the supervision and training of early-career students and researchers. -Support the development and translation of technologies for personalized and precision medicine. -Our laboratory maintains an active role within the Max Planck Queensland Center (https://research.qut.edu.au/mpqc/).
Your profile, qualifications, knowledge and skills: -PhD in Biotechnology, Biomedicine, Biology, Biomedical Engineering or a related field. -Interest in and eligibility to apply for competitive postdoctoral fellowships, such as Juan de la Cierva, Sara Borrell, AECC Postdoc. -Hands-on experience with complex 3D culture systems, preferably including primary cell cultures and organoids. -Interest in interdisciplinary research combining patient-derived samples, 3D models and bioengineering platforms. -Strong knowledge of cancer biology and tumor microenvironment dynamics. -Practical expertise in imaging techniques and immunofluorescence assays. -Interest in working with clinicians, the clinical coordinator, the biobank, and other members of the MATRIXinCANCER consortium. -Ability to perform rigorous documentation and management of clinical samples, associated data and experimental procedures. -Highly motivated, creative, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary group. -Excellent organizational skills, with a pragmatic, analytical, and problem-solving mindset. -Strong interest in learning and professional development within a young, dynamic, and competitive research laboratory. -Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Spanish.
Starting date and duration: Sept-Oct 2026, postdoc for 3 years with possible extension.
Application: Please send a single PDF of max. 5 MB with (i) a motivation letter describing your experience, research interests and preferred start date, (ii) CV with a complete list of publications, (iii) transcript of university record and (iv) contact information for three references, per email to amaia.cipitriasagardia@bio-gipuzkoa.eus, indicating “FORTALECE – Patient-derived cancer models” in the subject line.
