AI and Data Science for Bioengineering| Translational Pediatric Bioengineering

The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) is seeking outstanding and highly motivated candidates with an excellent scientific track record for two new Junior Group Leader positions. The two positions will be evaluated separately and have specific requirements and appointment conditions.

Applicants are expected to develop an ambitious research programme for their future group and to contribute to IBEC’s strategy based on excellent science, internationalisation, translation, and talent development.

Candidates may apply to one position only. Applicants must select the relevant reference in the online application system. Applications submitted to both positions will not be accepted.

Positions available

Junior Group Leader in AI and Data Science for Bioengineering (UB)

Specific focus / expertise:

Artificial intelligence and data science applied to bioengineering, including (but not limited to):
Machine learning and deep learning for complex biological and engineered systems
Data-driven modeling and simulation in bioengineering
Digital twins and predictive modeling for biological systems
Signal and image processing for bioengineering applications and health-related contexts AI in engineering and health-related contexts
This is a tenure-eligible position towards a permanent professor position at the University of Barcelona (UB). It will include a part-time teaching appointment at the UB School of Medicine. Therefore, teaching interest and expertise related to the research topics is also expected.

Junior Group Leader in Translational Pediatric Bioengineering (HSJD)

Specific focus / expertise:

Translational bioengineering applied to pediatric health, including (but not limited to):
Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine for pediatric applications
Pediatric medical devices and biosensors, and monitoring systems Microfluidics, organ-on-chip, and in vitro models for childhood diseases
Advanced biomaterials for clinical applications
Biological modeling and experimental systems for pediatric pathologies
Engineering solutions addressing unmet clinical needs in pediatric populations
Reference: JRGL_Bioeng Pediatric

Candidate profile Candidates must demonstrate:

5 years since PhD defense.
Extensive expertise in the specific scientific area of the position to which they apply.
An outstanding scientific output with international recognition within the field.
Leadership in competitive research funding, including a proven record of securing and coordinating competitive grants as Principal Investigator.
Substantial international research experience, including more than 3 years of professional activity outside Spain, such as extended research stays abroad.

Desirable competencies and skills:

Leadership and people management;
Critical judgement in identifying and executing research activities
Strategic vision for the future of the research field
Income and funding generation; knowledge generation and transfer
Collaboration; inclusion; excellent communication and networking skills.

What we offer

The successful candidates will be appointed for an initial 4-year period. At the end of the fourth year, each Junior Group Leader will be evaluated by the Scientific Advisory Board. A positive evaluation will allow the appointment to be extended.
A start-up package and suitable laboratory space.
Access to IBEC’s state-of-the-art core facilities and to outstanding predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers.
Support from a dedicated research project manager and IBEC’s researcher-oriented administrative teams.
Active support to participate in competitive calls and establish an independent research line.
Measures to reconcile work and family life and to support work-life balance, including flexible working hours, 23 working days of paid holidays, 9 leave days for personal matters, parental leave, flexible remuneration and other benefits.
An onboarding programme to facilitate incorporation at IBEC, including support for visa and work-permit procedures and relocation to Barcelona for international candidates. IBEC’s yearly training catalogue offers a wide range of technical and transferable skills training, including inclusive leadership training, mentoring programmes and coaching.
Access to IBEC’s international network of world-class research centres, universities, hospitals and industry partners.

Selection process

Candidates may apply to one position only. Each position will be assessed by its corresponding evaluation panel. Applications will be evaluated according to the specific requirements of the selected position.

Stage I - Remote evaluation of applications Applications will be evaluated remotely by interdisciplinary panels composed of experienced internal and external experts. Following Consensus Meeting I, shortlisted candidates will be invited to a remote interview.
Stage II - Remote interviews Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed remotely. Following Consensus Meeting II, selected candidates will be invited to Barcelona in October 2026 for the final interview stage.
Stage III - Final interview in Barcelona Final candidates will be interviewed by a Selection Committee composed of members of IBEC’s Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Candidates will present their research achievements, scientific quality, proposed scientific approach, expected impact, future research plans, and their ability to provide effective leadership and management. A site visit to IBEC facilities will take place during the interview day.

Key dates

Application deadline: 31 August 2026

Remote evaluation of applications: 1-21 September 2026

Consensus Meeting I: 22 September 2026

Remote interviews with shortlisted candidates: 28 September-1 October 2026

Consensus Meeting II: 1 October 2026

Invitation to final shortlisted candidates: 2 October 2026

Final interviews in Barcelona with SAB: 19-21 October 2026

Expected start date: As of 1 January 2027

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online no later than 31 August 2026 through the IBEC careers portal. Only applications submitted before the deadline will be evaluated.