Organisation / Company:
IRTADepartment:
Human ResourcesResearch Field:
Medical sciences » Veterinary medicine, Biological sciences » BiologyResearcher Profile:
First Stage Researcher (R1)Positions:
Master PositionsCountry:
SpainApplication Deadline:
15 Sep 2025 - 23:
59 (Europe / Madrid)Type of Contract:
TemporaryJob Status:
Full-timeHours Per Week:
37.5Offer Starting Date:
16 Oct 2025Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? NoIs the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? NoOffer Description
We are currently seeking a PhD Candidate to join our Animal Nutrition Program and Animal Breeding and Genetics Program teams located in Constantí and Caldes de Montbuí. This offers a great opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment within our organization.We invite applications from motivated candidates with passion and a strong interest in research and innovation activities within two research programs:
Animal Nutrition (Constantí, Tarragona) and Animal Breeding and Genetics (Caldes de Montbui, Barcelona). The PhD candidate will join a project aligned with IRTA’s scientific objective:
“Guarantee animal health and welfare in the context of reduced antibiotic use”.The main objective of this PhD project is to assess the effects of different feed additives on gut microbiota composition and intestinal immune responses in poultry, aiming to reduce Salmonella and/or Eimeria prevalence, infection, persistence, and associated antimicrobial resistance.To achieve this, the project involves:
Studying in vitro (organoids) the capacity of feed additives to modulate gene expression related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and barrier integrity.Determining in vivo how additives modulate intestinal microbiota and immune responses in chickens challenged with Salmonella or Eimeria spp., and their pathogenicity reduction.Evaluating the immunomodulatory capacity of probiotics to promote targeted cytotoxic responses (via T-cell immune response) and reduce intracellular Salmonella persistence.Deciphering the synergies of additive blends on host immune system and microbiota to counteract inflammation and infection dissemination.Unveiling immune pathways modulated by Salmonella spp. in Peyer’s Patches using Spatial Transcriptomics.Candidates must hold degrees in Veterinary, Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or similar, and:
Possess a master’s in nutrition and metabolism, Veterinary science, Animal health, Animal Breeding, Genetics, Animal production, or similar;
or be eligible for a doctoral program per Catalan university requirements, including accrediting 60-120 ECTS credits at the master’s level (Spanish Veterinary degree holders may not need a master's).Proficiency in English, strong teamwork skills, adaptability to multidisciplinary environments, and a focus on professional growth are required.Candidates invited for an interview should bring or send certified copies of degrees and academic records.Specific Requirements
Strong interest in nutrition, immunity, and genetics for sustainable poultry production.Experience with statistical analysis and programming in R is a plus.Ability to work in a team and adapt to flexible schedules and locations.Driving license is required.Catalan and Spanish language skills are valued.Languages
English:
Good levelResearch Field:
Biological sciences » Biology, Medical sciences » Veterinary medicineYears of Research Experience:
1 - 4
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