IMDEA Materials Institute is a public research organization founded in 2007 by Madrid’s regional government to carry out research of excellence in Material Science and Engineering by attracting talent from all over the world to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment. IMDEA Materials has grown rapidly since its foundation and currently includes more than 120 researchers from 22 nationalities and has become one of the leading research centers in materials in Europe which has received the María de Maeztu seal of excellence from the Spanish government. The research activities have been focused on the areas of materials for transport, energy, and health care and the Institute has state-of-the-art facilities for processing, characterization and simulation of advanced materials.

More information can be found at our webpage.

The position is embedded in a research program focused on understanding how engineered biomaterials influence cellular behavior through biochemical and mechanical cues. The project integrates biomaterial surface biofunctionalization, advanced material characterization, and in vitro biological evaluation using 2D, 3D and microfluidic systems.

The successful candidate will support ongoing mechanobiology studies, with a particular emphasis on how the physical and chemical properties of materials regulate cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and function. Experimental work will include the preparation and characterization of biomaterial surfaces, in vitro cell culture studies, molecular assays, and the use of microfluidic devices to simulate physiologically relevant environments. We are looking for a candidate with a background in biomaterials and knowledge in biology, cell culture techniques.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine mammalian cell culture and biological assays
• Assist in molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, protein/DNA/RNA analysis)
• Contribute to biomaterial surface preparation and biofunctionalization
• Support physicochemical and structural characterization of materials
• Participate in experiments using microfluidic systems and bioreactor for cell studies
• Record, analyze, and present experimental data
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team

Mandatory requirements:

It is important that the candidate meets the requirements indicated in the call:

1. Age (16–29 years old)
2. Degree/qualification (according to the requested profile)
3. Registered as an unemployed job seeker at the emplyment office within the National Employment System (SEPE) before hiring: https://sede.comunidad.madrid/...
4. No employment relationship with IMEDEA (during the 6 months prior to hiring).

The position is supported by Young Researchers Programme of the Community of Madrid within the framework of the ESF+ Programme: Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) / Programa de Jóvenes Investigadores de la Comunidad de Madrid en el marco del Programa FSE+: Plataforma de Tecnologías Estratégicas para Europa (STEP)

Other requirements:

• Fluent in English (written and oral).
• Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, Biology, Materials Science, or a related field
• Basic laboratory experience in cell culture and/or molecular biology is desirable
• Interest in biomaterials, mechanobiology, and bioengineering research
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented research environment
• Good organizational skills and attention to experimental detail

- Full-time contract for 12 months.

- Availability to start in July 2026.