Research line
The laboratory investigates the cellular, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms underlying colorectal cancer and rare pediatric tumors, such as hepatoblastoma. Using cutting-edge technologies, including spatial and single-cell transcriptomics, exosome profiling, and microbiome and metabolome analyses, we explore how factors such as age, cellular plasticity, and the tumor microenvironment influence cancer progression and resistance to treatment. Our objective is to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets to guide personalized and minimally invasive interventions in patients of all ages. Our laboratory combines basic research with a strong translational focus, bridging molecular knowledge and clinical innovation.
The candidate will be integrated into the Joint Research Unit in Biomedicine and Pharmacology FISABIO–Dr. Peset University Hospital–University of Valencia–Universitat Jaume I, led by Dr. Juan Vicente Esplugues Mota, under the supervision of Dr. Jorge Mata-Garrido, benefiting from a multidisciplinary environment that brings together basic researchers and clinicians from several hospitals in the Valencian Community. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong interest in cancer cell biology, willing to work in a multidisciplinary setting. The candidate should demonstrate a certain degree of scientific independence, while continuing to receive training in new techniques.
Required qualifications
PhD in Health Sciences field (obtained in 2022 or later), with a competitive CV including publications within the last five years as first and/or corresponding author in first-quartile or top-decile journals according to the Journal Citation Reports, as well as participation in research projects and postgraduate training activities. The candidate must not currently hold, nor have previously completed, a Sara Borrell contract.
Desirable qualifications
Experience working with patient-derived samples, microscopy, basic molecular biology techniques (Western blot, RT-qPCR, among others), cell culture, and a good level of spoken and written English will be valued.
Additional assets
Particular consideration will be given to experience in intestinal organoid culture, the use of omics technologies (scRNA-seq, metabolomics, etc.), and knowledge of computational biology.
Application procedure
Please send a letter of recommendation, an updated CV, and contact details for two referees to Jorge Mata-Garrido (jorge.mata@fisabio.es). Applicants who do not meet the specified requirements are kindly requested to refrain from applying.
The call will open on February 10, 2026, with a deadline of March 5, 2026; therefore, candidates are encouraged to get in touch as early as possible.