Offer Description
The project aims to elucidate the nano-physicochemical determinants governing the structure, heterogeneity and protein-corona formation of both natural lipoproteins (HDL) and synthetic lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and to relate these properties to their biological function. By integrating bulk and single-particle biophysical approaches, the research seeks to uncover the molecular basis of HDL dysfunction and identify the factors determining the efficiency of LNP cellular delivery and endosomal…
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The position involves tasks covering the purification of lipoproteins and preparation of lipid nanoparticles, their characterization using OMICS approaches, implementing protocols to perform single particle profiling to analyse differences in lipoprotein and lipid nanoparticles at the single particle level and also to perform functional cell-based tests such as cholesterol efflux capacity and anti-inflammatory properties. Among the tasks we include quantitative data analysis.
The successful candidate will be appointed through a one-year ResearchTechnical contract with possibility for prolongation for the duration of the project. The candidate will join Instituto Biofisika (IBF).
The project includes close collaboration with leading research groups in the Basque Country, Spain, and abroad, as well as experimental use of major international large-scale research infrastructures, including the Institut Laue-Langevin (France), ESRF (France), EMBL (Germany), the European Spallation Source (Sweden), and the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (United Kingdom).
Requirements
Skills/Qualifications
Candidate Profile
Applicants should have:
- A Bachelor's and Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Biophysics, or a closely related discipline.
- A strong academic record.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Strong motivation to learn and apply interdisciplinary biophysical research methods.
Previous experience in microscopy, scattering techniques, structural biology, or related experimental methods will be considered an advantage but is not required. Full training will be provided to highly motivated candidates.
Selection Process & Evaluation Criteria (OTM-R Aligned)
1. Eligibility Check: Compliance with formal degree requirements and application completeness. Pass / Fail
2. Academic Record & CV: Academic excellence, technical background, research experience, and overall suitability for the project. 50%
3. Interview: Motivation, scientific reasoning, communication skills, English proficiency, and project fit. 40%
4. Reference Check: Technical skills, commitment and teamwork. 10%
Notice: Reference checks and interviews form an integral part of the evaluation process. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview. Instituto Biofisika is committed to equal opportunities and recruits following the principles of Open, Transparent and Merit-based Recruitment (OTM-R).
Specific Requirements
What We Offer
- A one-year technical employment contract.
- Advanced training in state-of-the-art microscopy and biochemical techniques.
- Access to leading European large-scale research infrastructures.
- An international, collaborative, and multidisciplinary research environment.
- Opportunities to attend international conferences and specialized training courses.
- Close supervision and career development within an internationally recognized research group.
How to Apply
Please send a single PDF containing:
- Curriculum vitae (maximum two pages)
- Motivation letter (maximum one page)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's degrees, including grades)
- Contact details for two academic referees
Applications should be sent to marite.cardenas@ehu.eus with the subject line:
Job Application 156: Research Technician Position in Biophysics of Lipoproteins and Lipid Nanoparticles
Application deadline: 31 October 2026
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting 30 September 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. Early applications are strongly encouraged. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Additional Information
Benefits
About Instituto Biofisika
Instituto Biofisika (IBF) is a joint research center of the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). Together with Fundación Biofísica Bizkaia, a Basque Excellence Research Centre (BERC), IBF provides an internationally recognized environment for interdisciplinary research in biophysics, structural biology, and advanced imaging.
Located on the UPV/EHU campus near Bilbao, the institute hosts internationally competitive research groups and offers access to state-of-the-art scientific infrastructure.
Research Environment
The successful candidate will join the Biocolloids and Neutron Scattering Laboratory, an internationally active research group specialized in the physicochemical characterization of biological colloids and membrane systems. The candidate will have opportunities to perform experiments at international neutron and synchrotron facilities and to present research at international conferences. The candidate will have the possibility to start studies as a PhD student, if so it is desired.