09-11-2026

Predoctoral Researcher (FPI) - J.Selent

Ref.:

FIMIM3348-SELENT

Institution:

FUNDACIÓ IMIM

Researcher/s responsible for the project:

Jana Selent

Project title:

Grants for predoctoral contracts for the training of doctors 2025 (FPI)

Research group / Service:

GPCR Drug Discovery research group

Area description:

The Research Institute of the Hospital del Mar is looking for a Predoctoral Researcher (FPI) to join the Research Group in the discovery of drugs based on receptors coupled to G proteins, led by JANA SELENT -, located at the Biomedical Research Park (PRBB) in Barcelona. This PhD research project focuses on understanding how cancer-associated mutations alter the structure, dynamics, and pharmacological properties of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These mutations can modify receptor conformational landscapes, influencing receptor stability, signaling pathways, and ligand recognition. The project aims to identify compounds capable of selectively targeting oncogenic GPCR variants and restoring dysfunctional receptor states. By combining molecular dynamics simulations, structural bioinformatics, ensemble-based virtual screening, and ligand–receptor interaction analysis, the research will contribute to the development of precision therapeutic strategies for different cancer types.

Main responsibilities:

- Conduct computational research into the structural and dynamic properties of oncogenic GPCR variants. - Apply molecular modelling, molecular dynamics simulations and structure-based drug discovery techniques. - Analyse large-scale molecular simulation datasets and interpret structural and pharmacological results. - Collaborate with multidisciplinary researchers to support the experimental validation of computational findings. - Develop reproducible computational methodologies and contribute to scientific publications and presentations. - Actively participate in research group activities and doctoral training. - Generate and analyse conformational ensembles of selected oncogenic GPCR variants using molecular dynamics simulations. - Identify mutation-induced changes in receptor conformations, drug-binding pockets and allosteric sites. - Perform ensemble-based virtual screening to identify potential therapeutic compounds. - Investigate protein-ligand interactions and binding modes to prioritise compounds capable of stabilising functional receptor states. - Integrate structural, dynamic and pharmacological data to guide compound selection. - Support the experimental validation of selected compounds and investigate potential receptor rescue mechanisms. - Develop and maintain reproducible computational workflows for GPCR-focused drug discovery.

What do we need?

Academic background - Master's degree in Bioinformatics for Health Sciences. - Admission to an accredited PhD programme at the time of recruitment, followed by formal proof of enrolment. Technical skills and knowledge - Strong background in structural biology, structural bioinformatics and G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) biology. - Experience in molecular modelling and molecular dynamics simulations. - Familiarity with molecular simulation software such as ACEMD, OpenMM or GROMACS. - Knowledge of protein-ligand interactions, molecular recognition and structure-based drug discovery. - Knowledge of Python programming and the analysis of large molecular datasets. - Experience with computational workflows and scientific data analysis. Additional assets - Experimental experience in structural biology, particularly involving GPCRs. - Previous research experience in computational drug discovery or molecular pharmacology. - Familiarity with virtual screening and high-performance computing (HPC) environments. Personal competencies - Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. - Motivation to pursue a career in scientific research. - Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. - Excellent written and spoken English. - Strong communication, organisational and scientific reporting skills.

What do we offer?

- Full-time employment contract. - Predoctoral employment contract, subject to applicable funding and employment regulations. - Integration into the GPCR Drug Discovery Laboratory at the Hospital del Mar Research Institute, located within the Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB). - Access to advanced scientific infrastructure, computational resources and state-of-the-art research platforms. - Opportunities for scientific training, professional development and participation in national and international conferences. - A supportive working environment that fosters scientific independence, teamwork and professional growth.

Additional information:

Selection Criteria Criterion 1. Academic and/or scientific-technical track record of the candidate (up to 50 points). Subcriterion 1.a): Scientific and technical contributions (up to 45 points). The candidate’s academic record and other curriculum vitae merits will be assessed, as well as their suitability for the tasks to be carried out in light of the candidate’s education and professional experience. Subcriterion 1.b): Mobility and internationalisation (up to 5 points). The relevance and impact of the candidate’s research stays at national and international institutions and/or in the industrial sector on their research career will be assessed, taking into account the reputation of the host institution and the activities carried out during the stay. Criterion 2. Suitability of the candidate for the research activities to be carried out (up to 50 points). The candidate’s suitability for the programme, project or research activities to be carried out will be assessed in light of their previous education and experience. This assessment will take into account the added value that carrying out the project will bring to the candidate’s research career, as well as the value contributed to the host institution and research team. Conditions of incorporation The formalisation of the employment contract is subject to a favourable resolution of the FPI grant application. The selected candidate may only take up the position on the first day of a month.

Contract:

Pre-doctoral LL.C. 12p

Schedule	Retribution	Hire date
Full-time contract.	22251.77 € bruts anuals