The Cancer Metabolism Group at the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) in Barcelona is seeking a highly motivated Erasmus Master student to join the team for a one-year thesis project on mechanisms of tumour adaptation and resistance to stress conditions such as chemotherapy and metastasis. This is a 12-month, 38-hours-per-week placement, with the stipend covered by the Erasmus Traineeship programme. The application deadline is 31 August 2026.
About the Research
The lab recently uncovered a specialised subset of 40S ribosomes that, together with the RNA-binding protein LARP1, form a complex regulating a specific class of mRNAs called 5′TOPs. These mRNAs encode not only ribosomal proteins and translation factors, but also key anabolic regulators that sustain tumour growth. The findings reveal the 40S–LARP1 complex as a dynamic metabolic hub that cancer cells exploit to preserve their capacity to generate tumour biomass. The long-term goal of the lab is to understand, through a multidisciplinary approach, the cellular adaptations that sustain biomass production in tumour contexts, and to identify metabolic vulnerabilities that could become critical targets in cancer treatment.
What You'll Learn
The student will be trained in a wide range of molecular and cell biology techniques, including:
🧬 CRISPR–Cas9 genome editing.
🧫 Cell culture (2D, 3D, organoids).
🔬 Gene and protein expression analysis (RT-qPCR, Western blot, RNA-seq).
🧪 Polysome profiling and RNA–protein interaction studies.
You will be part of an interdisciplinary and supportive team with a strong track record of mentoring international students.
💼 Curious how funded research traineeships abroad work? Here's a helpful guide: Paid Internships Abroad for Students: How Funded Traineeships Really Work → https://youthworkshub.org/paid-internships-abroad
Requirements
🎓 A Master's student in Biomedicine, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or related fields.
🧠 A strong interest in cancer biology and translational control.
🗣️ Good English communication and analytical skills.
Highly valued: prior experience in basic molecular and cell biology techniques (cell culture, Western blot, qPCR), and the motivation to develop as a researcher and pursue a PhD.
🧑💼 Also considering people-and-office roles in Spain? Here's one to explore: Internship in 🇪🇸 Spain: Talent Acquisition and Human Resources at a Language School → https://youthworkshub.org/21681
About the Lab
The Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism is part of IDIBELL, which integrates research from the Bellvitge University Hospital (HUB), the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) and the University of Barcelona (UB). The lab is located on the vibrant Bellvitge Campus, in the south of Barcelona.
Practical Details
⏳ Duration: 12 months.
🕘 Schedule: 38 hours per week.
📅 Expected start: 1 October 2026.
🎓 Programme: the stipend is covered by the Erasmus Traineeship programme; applicants must be eligible to apply to this programme for a duration of 12 months (no additional work visa required).
How to Apply
Send your CV and a short motivation letter (1 page maximum) to the group leader.
Deadline
⏳ 31 August 2026
Application Email
📧 agentilella@idibell.cat
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