About CNAG

The Centro Nacional de Análisis Genómico (CNAG) is a world-leading genomics research institute located in Barcelona. With state-of-the-art genomic analysis capabilities, CNAG supports national and international researchers, as well as clinicians, in pursuing cutting-edge research and clinical applications. CNAG carries out large-scale genomic projects involving DNA and RNA analysis in collaboration with the Spanish, European and international research communities.

CNAG is one of the largest genome analysis centres in Europe, equipped with advanced sequencing, single-cell and spatial genomics technologies and extensive computing infrastructure. Its operations are certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 and accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025, supporting the delivery of standardised, high-quality data for research and clinical applications.

CNAG has more than 125 professionals and participates in major international genome initiatives and EU-funded projects.

About Single Cell Genomics Group

The candidate will join the Single Cell Genomics Team, a highly collaborative and international environment with expertise in single-cell and spatial data generation and analysis. The team applies multi-omics single-cell and spatial technologies to clinical samples to investigate the molecular and cellular basis of immune-cell action and to translate advanced genomic technologies into clinically relevant applications.

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Computational Biology PhD student to develop and apply cutting-edge bioinformatics approaches at the interface of single-cell genomics, machine learning, immunology and translational medicine. The successful candidate will analyse multimodal and longitudinal single-cell datasets, integrate genomic readouts with clinical patient information, and contribute to the development of statistical and predictive approaches aimed at improving patient stratification and understanding disease dynamics.

Main Responsibilities

• Analyse single-cell transcriptomics, CITE-seq and scATAC-seq datasets generated using different single-cell analysis systems.
• Perform quality control, multimodal data integration and complementary single-cell computational analyses.
• Analyse longitudinal liquid-biopsy samples and integrate datasets across patients, time points and molecular modalities.
• Develop and apply statistical/computational methods and contribute to predictive models for patient stratification, disease progression and therapeutic outcome.
• Integrate genomic data with clinical patient information and work collaboratively in multidisciplinary projects within the Single Cell Genomics Team.

Skills / Qualifications

Required:

• Completed Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Mathematics, Statistics or a similar field; competence in Python and R.
• Experience in single-cell and/or machine-learning analysis.
• Excellent knowledge of Computational Biology; ability to work in a multidisciplinary team on collaborative projects.

Profile:

• High motivation and creative thinking, with an interest in improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare.
• Interest in working where advanced single-cell and spatial technologies meet innovative approaches to data interpretation and knowledge generation.

Employment Conditions & Benefits

Contract: Predoctoral full-time employment contract.

Work location: CNAG, Barcelona, Spain.

Expected starting date: As soon as possible.

Working hours: 35-hour working week, Monday to Friday.

Flexible working hours: Starting time between 7:30 and 10:00, with a lunch break of 30-90 minutes.

Remote working: Possibility of remote working up to two days per week.

Annual leave: 30 working days per year.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience, in accordance with CNAG's salary scales.

Flexible remuneration: Options may include meals, public transport, health insurance, childcare and training.

Application Procedure

All applications must be addressed to People Management - people@cnag.eu

Email subject: 2026-14 CNAG: PhD Computational Biologist

Deadline: Please submit your applications by October 5th, 2026.

All applications must include:

• A motivation letter addressed to Dr. Holger Heyn.
• A complete CV including contact details.
• Contact details of two referees.

Selection Procedure

The pre-selection process will be based on the qualifications, professional experience and expertise reflected in the candidate's applications. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.

CNAG offers and promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation.

See all our job openings in the "Jobs" section of the CNAG website: http://www.cnag.eu/jobs