The Vall d´Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO) Seeks a “Predoctoral Position (PhD Student)”

Reference:  2026-001-01

Application deadline: 31/01/2026

Number of vacancies: 1

We are seeking a highly motivated predoctoral candidate to star a PhD project entitled “Retinoblastoma protein and Neuroendocrine Transformation in Lung Cancer”, with the aim of applying for a Spanish FPI fellowship.

Project description

The project focuses on understanding the role of the retinoblastoma (RB1) tumor suppressor in neuroendocrine transformation in lung cancer. The project aims to identify novel vulnerabilities and potential therapeutic opportunities associated with RB1-deficient SCLC. To address these questions, the successful candidate will employ a combination of molecular, cellular, and in vivo approaches to study the mechanisms underlying neuroendocrine transformation and tumor progression.

About the Research Group

The Cancer Cell Cycle Group led by Dr. Marcos Malumbres at Vall Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO) is growing, we are looking for exceptional professionals to be part of our Team and to contribute to our research.

Our research lab focuses on the basic mechanisms that control cell differentiation and proliferation, and their implications in pathology. We are interested in deciphering the mechanisms that drive tumour cell proliferation, with a patient-focused perspective, and the therapeutic opportunities of inhibiting the activity of critical cell cycle regulators in cancer.

Find more about our research here: https://malumbreslab.org/ and https://vhio.net/pf/cancer-cell-cycle-group/

Candidate profile

- University degree in Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related discipline

- Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedicine, or a related field

- Strong interest in cancer biology and translational research.

- Previous experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques, including WB, qPCR, cell culture, high-throughput screenings (HTS), RNAseq, EMseq, microscopy, among other related methods

- Highly motivated, proactive, and able to work independently and as part of a team.

- Good command of the English language.

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should send their applications including the following documents:

1. A motivation letter detailing your research interests and relevant experience addressed to Dr. Marcos Malumbres

2. A complete CV including contact details

3. Detailed transcript of grades for both the official degree and master’s program, organized by subject

“The selection process will include an interview phase with institutional representatives and members of the research group.”

Additional information:

We offer:

• 📈The possibility of developing your professional career in a competitive environment.

• 🧠To be part of a center that is constantly developing, pursuing excellence in research and collaborating with leading teams.

• 🫱🏻‍🫲🏾We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment, and welcome all people equally, regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation.

• 🪴We care about our environment and understand the importance of sustainability. We have the GreenVhio program, which you can be a part of.

Conditions:

• 📝 “Predoctoral contract funded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (MICIU), the State Research Agency (AEI/10.13039/501100011033), and co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).”

• 🗓️Full-time position, 37.5 hours per week.

• 💶Salary according to qualifications and experience following VHIO pay scales.

• 💳Flexible remuneration program (includes restaurant vouchers/cards, transport, medical insurance, and “baby daycare” voucher).

• ⏰Flexible working hours and measures to balance work, family, and personal life, and promote gender equality, as established in the VHIO collective agreement.

• 🗺️24 days of holidays and 6 personal days.

• 🎓Fully subsidized Catalan, Spanish, or English courses.

• 🏃‍➡️Take advantage of doing sports at great prices with Urban Sports Club.

• 🩺You’ll have access to weekly physiotherapy sessions at the office, offered at a reduced price for the team.

Vall d’Hebron Institute Oncology (VHIO) endorses the Requirements and Principles of the European Charter for Researchers, the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers promoted by the European Commission and follows Equal Opportunities policies.

On 10th April 2018 VHIO was awarded the “HR Excellence in Research” logo. Our Institute was consequently granted permission to use the HR Excellence in Research Award logo as demonstration of its stimulating and favourable work environment in line with the Charter & Code.