CREAF is seeking a support technician for scientific activities of the SEVERO OCHOA project, with ref. CEX2023-001340-S, funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033.
The selected person will have a dedication CREAF scientific activities (Action 3.3. of Severo Ochoa program - to create a program of projects for early career researchers).
A full-time contract is offered (37.5 hours per week), with a planned start date of March 2026. The position will last at least until Jun 2026. The offered salary is 20.045,73 gross per year (corresponding to category T5B).
MAIN FUNCTIONS:
Monitoring seedling growth (cultivated at the Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics: CRAG, in coordination with their technical staff) to ensure proper experimental conditions.
Measuring leaf water potential to determine the turgor loss point (measurements every two days).
Preparing the full experimental campaign, including:
- Labeling of plants, leaves and bags.
- Preparation of datasheets.
- Pre-testing of the experiment.
- Training on and use of measurement devices (e.g. temperature sensors and loggers using Campbell dataloggers and 12V batteries, thermal threshold measurements using water bath techniques, porometer LI-COR 600, pressure chamber for leaf water potential, dehydration curves using a scale, leaf scanning and weighing).
Full execution of the measurement campaign (lasting approx. two weeks within the four-month contract).
Data management and analysis, including:
- Image analysis of leaf morphological traits using ImageJ.
- Statistical analysis of final datasets using R Studio, including linear mixed-effects models.
REQUIREMENTS:
Degree in Biology, Forest Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Environmental Biology, or a related field; or higher-level laboratory technician qualification or equivalent.
Knowledge of plant ecophysiology and solid experience in ecological or biological research, either in field conditions or controlled experimental environments.
Previous experience with relevant measurement techniques (e.g. pressure chamber) is a strong asset.
Ability to work independently and manage experimental tasks autonomously.
Experience with basic data analysis using R Studio and ImageJ.
ASSESSABLE CONDITIONS:
High level of autonomy combined with good teamwork skills.
Good command of English (spoken and written).
Candidates with a recognised disability equal to or greater than 33% will be considered and prioritised, provided the disability is compatible wiht proper job performance.
SELECTION PROCESS AND CRITERIA:
Applicants must apply for the position and attach the required documentation (CV and cover letter of a maximum of 500 words), by January 21th, 2026. Applications submitted through any platform other than the CREAF job board, or not following its instructions, will not be accepted.
Pre-selection: verification of compliance with the minimum requirements of the offer.
Selection: pre-selected candidates will be scored based on objective criteria. Candidates with the highest scores will be invited to an interview, either in person or remotely (depending on the country of residence).
Final decision: the final resolution will be communicated to the selected candidate and subsequenly published in the CREAF job openings section.