Apply for a PhD @ CRG

 | Eligibility criteria | How to apply  |  Selection process | CRG PhD call timeline | Fellowships Available | Workshops | Contact

Apply now to boost your scientific career at the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona. The CRG is a center of excellence with international teams representing a broad range of disciplines, with first-class core technologies to support the research projects, a wide range of seminars given by high-profile invited speakers, and courses on complementary and transferable skills integrated with the training programme.

SERRANO LAB

Synthetic Biology | Protein Design | Artificial Intelligence | Lung Therapy | Live therapeutic

Our Research

Engineering of a human lung bacteria for human lung therapy combining synthetic biology and protein design

Who are we looking for?

We seek an enthusiastic candidate with solid experience and expertise in either molecular biology or computational biolog

NOVOA LAB

RNA Modifications | Sperm | Oocyte |Nanopore Sequencing |Polyuridylation | Aging

Our Research

We want to understand how gene expression is regulated with surgical precision, in a tissue-dependent, spatial and temporal dimension. Our research focuses on: i) the role that RNA modifications in sperm formation, maturation and inheritance; ii) how and why RNA modification dysregulation leads to human disease and antibiotic resistance; and iii) bring direct RNA nanopore sequencing technologies towards the clinic, for early cancer diagnosis and stratification of patient samples.

Who are we looking for?

PhD1: Motivated candidate interested in basic biology and translational biology, with both wet/dry lab backgrounds, to establish protocols and computational pipelines to exploit RNA modifications as disease biomarkers for early cancer diagnosis, and prognosis. EURECA network¹.
PhD2: Motivated candidate with hybrid wet/dry background, to study RNA modifications, tailing and fragmentation in diverse biological contexts, focusing on sperm formation, early oocyte development and aging.

AL JORD LAB

Mechanobiology | Cytoskeleton | RNA | Optogenetics | Biomolecular Condensates | Advanced Microscopy

Our Research

The “Mechanics of Organelle Remodeling” group’s interdisciplinary research aims to decipher how cytoskeletal forces impact nuclear dynamics across scales in health & disease, with a focus on the mechano-regulation of nuclear biomolecular condensates & RNA processing.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for aspiring scientists who are curious, creative, and ready to take on the challenge of cross-disciplinary research in biology. If you have a background in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, and/or Biophysics, and if you are as excited about the mysteries of mechanobiology, biomolecular condensates, and RNA as we are, then you might be the ideal student we're searching for.

GUIGÓ LAB

Transcription Regulation | Syntactic and Semantic Patterns in the Genome Sequence | Computational Biology |

Our Research

Our lab is interested in understanding the genetic and epigenetic factors that regulate transcription, and the relationship between transcriptomes and phenotypes. The lab is also interested in the understanding of the syntactic and semantic patterns in the genome sequence that define genes, and in developing methods to predict genes in the genomes of eukaryotic species.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with a strong background in computational biology and bioinformatics, as well as in Machine Learning (including Large Language Models). Good understanding of evolutionary and molecular biology concepts, and good statistical (data analysis) and programming skills are a must. Familarity with mathematical and quantiative approaches is preferable.

SEBÉ-PEDRÓS LAB

Chromatin | Gene Regulation |Histone Marks | Eukaryotic Evolution |Phylogeny | Proteomics

Our Research

We study the origin and evolution of cell type programs and associated genome regulation mechanisms: transcription factors, 3D chromatin architecture, histone modifications, and more. To this end, we combine single-cell genomics, chromatin profiling, and phylogenetic comparative methods in diverse animals and unicellular eukaryotes.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for candidates broadly interested in evolutionary biology, gene regulation, and comparative genomics.

SURREY LAB

Self-Organization | Crowding | Phase Separation | Cytoskeleton | Microtubules | Motor Proteins

Our Research

The Surrey lab studies the design principles of biological self-organization, focusing on the cytoskeleton. Their interdisciplinary research merges synthetic biology, biophysics, biochemistry, cell biology and mathematical modelling.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a candidate with a master training in biochemistry, biophysics or structural biology; keen interest in proteins and dynamic networks to be studied by advanced fluorescence and electron microscopy

HÖPFLER LAB

Gene regulation |Protein Synthesis | RNA Biology & Decay | Microtubules |In Vitro Reconstitution

Our Research

The “Dynamics of protein synthesis & RNA decay” group headed by Markus Höpfler investigates fundamental mechanisms of cellular protein and RNA homeostasis, focusing on disease-relevant RNA decay pathways.

Who are we looking for?

Join us if you’re excited about revealing molecular mechanisms controlling RNA stability by combining biochemical reconstitution, cell biology and genetics approaches. A strong background in these disciplines will be beneficial.

FERRER LAB

Epigenomics | diabetes | single cell | Omics regulatory genomics

Our Research

The Ferrer Lab at CRG studies how regulatory genomic variants alter pancreatic β-cell networks, leading to different forms of diabetes. By combining human genetics, regulatory genomics, and genome editing, they aim to uncover disease mechanisms and design strategies to restore or regenerate insulin-producing cells.

Who are we looking for?

PhD1: An experience candidate with computational genomics experience, statistical genetics or related discipline.
PhD2:  A candidate with a proven track record in molecular biology.
 

BÖKE LAB

Metabolism | Proteostasis |Fertility |Long-Lived Cells

Our Research

The main focus is to reveal the mechanisms oocytes, female germ cells that become eggs, employ to establish homeostasis during their long lifespan, and why these mechanisms eventually fail with advanced age. If you are interested in understanding how life begins, apply!

Who are we looking for?

The candidate is enthusiastic about understanding the mysteries of life! Experience in cell and developmental biology is a big plus.

TÁBARA LAB

Mitochondria | mtDNA | Membrane Dynamics | Rare Diseases | Microscopy

Our Research

As the main providers of cellular energy, mitochondria are essential for metabolism and sustaining life. Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with multiple pathologies, ranging from devastating inherited disorders to common age-related diseases. To identify new therapeutic interventions, our lab studies the mechanisms regulating mitochondrial dynamics and how mitochondrial physiology integrates within the cell.

Who are we looking for?

We offer 2 PhD positions for highly motivated researchers. A true passion for science and discovery is key. Previous expertise in any aspect of mitochondrial physiology can be a plus. 
PhD1 will focus on characterizing maladaptive and pathogenic responses associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
PhD2 will investigate key aspects of the regulation of the mitochondrial genome.
 

MARTIN LAB

Computational Models | Mathematical Models | Evolutionary Processes | Fitness Landscapes | Genotype-Phenotype Maps | Molecular Structures

Our Research

Nora Martin’s group at the Collaboratorium is building computational and theoretical models to gain a better quantitative understanding of variation, for example, mutational changes in molecular structures, and investigate the interplay between variation and selection in evolutionary processes.

Who are we looking for?

A highly motivated researcher with a background in physics, mathematics (or another discipline with a strong emphasis on theory and computational modelling) to apply their skills to the fascinating field of evolutionary processes across biological scales.

COSMA LAB

Stem Cells | Chromatin | Super Resolution Imaging | Genome Organisation

Our Research

We are investigating the functional role of 3D genome organization using super resolution microscopy, genomic and modeling approaches. Our research is focused on elucidating how nuclear architecture and chromatin looping regulate cellular function in stem cells, somatic cells and cancer. 

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for highly motivated individuals with a degree in biology, biotechnology, biophysics or related disciplines with expertise in imaging, cellular, and molecular biology. The selected candidate will work in the field of 3D genome organisation using super resolution imaging approaches.

STROUSTRUP LAB

Aging |Biomarker | Quantitative Imaging | Statistical modelling | Machine Learning | Molecular Genetics

Our Research

Our group studies the molecular origins of aging, working to understand how functional declines at the molecular level can lead to emergent aging phenotypes at the organismal-level. We ask questions like: why do some individuals live longer than other? Why do point mutations in the insulin receptor double lifespan? We are an interdisciplinary group, combining experimental methods taken from functional genetics, systems biology, and CRISPR genome editing with a variety of statistical and phenomenological modelling techniques.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for candidates interested in experimental research on aging, with a focus on biomarkers, quantitative measurement, and interdisciplinary projects working closely with bioinformaticians and engineers. We are particularly interested in students with training in experimental life sciences or engineering.

IRIMIA LAB

Evolutionary Genomics | Deep Generative Models|Comparative Genomics | Disease Risk Prediction

Our Research

This MSCA Evo-MG Doctoral Network position explores genetic constraints across species to understand age-associated disease risk. The project will develop deep generative models to analyze protein sequences and gene expression in specific tissues, identifying biomarkers of healthy states and building predictive tools. It is carried out in collaboration with Dr. Jamie Blundell at UCAM, blending evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, and disease genomics.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a candidate with a bioinformatics background, motivated to apply deep generative models to study protein sequences and gene expression, uncovering biomarkers and predicting age-related disease risk.

DIAS & FRAZER LAB

Evolutionary Genomics | Deep Generative Models|Comparative Genomics | Disease Risk Prediction

Our Research

This MSCA Evo-MG Doctoral Network position explores genetic constraints across species to understand age-associated disease risk. The project will develop deep generative models to analyse protein sequences and gene expression in specific tissues, identifying biomarkers of healthy states and building predictive tools. It is carried out in collaboration with Dr. Jamie Blundell at UCAM, blending evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, and disease genomics.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a candidate with a bioinformatics background motivated to apply deep generative models to study protein sequences and gene expression, uncovering biomarkers and predicting age-related disease risk.

CRG/UPF Proteomics Unit

Quantitative Proteomics | Mass Spectrometry Innovation | Computational Proteomics | Biomedical Applications

Our Research

This MSCA Doctoral Network project combines artificial intelligence and proteomics to predict complete proteomes, aiming to enhance protein detection and uncover molecular variations in biomedical samples. Re-analysis of proteome datasets and in silico modelling will reveal new aspects of protein detectability and abundance. In collaboration with Dr. Mathias Wilhelm at TUM, the project leverages computational mass spectrometry, big data analytics, and AI-driven proteomic.

Who are we looking for?

A motivated researcher with strong programming skills and knowledge of machine learning algorithms, bioinformatics, proteomics, and molecular biology, keen to explore ideas and collaborate on applying computational approaches to advance biomedical research.

BETTENCOURT LAB

Tubulin | Actin Cytoskeleton | Centrosomes | Cancer Biology | Super-Resolution |Live Imaging |Proteomics

Our Research

We study how complex cellular structures such as centrosomes and cilia are assembled, maintained and diversified across development, disease and evolution. By combining reconstitution, proteomics, super-resolution microscopy, modelling, and work in diverse organisms we uncover fundamental principles of cellular architecture and how they contribute to disease.

Who are we looking for?

We seek motivated students with a strong background in cell or molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics or related disciplines. Prior experience with microscopy, quantitative analysis or cancer biology is welcome but not required. Curiosity, creativity, and the willingness to engage in multidisciplinary and collaborative projects are key.

Eligibility criteria

Candidates should fulfill the following eligibility criteria at the time of the call deadline. If it becomes clear before, during, or after the evaluation phase that one or more of the eligibility criteria have not been fulfilled, the proposal will be declared ineligible and withdrawn from further examination.

• The call is open to candidates of any nationality.
• Candidates must have obtained a University Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in biomedical sciences within the European Higher Education System (minimum 300 ECTS) or an equivalent University Degree that allows them to start a PhD thesis in Spain. Candidates who expect to be awarded with such a degree by September 2026 are eligible to apply.
• Candidates must have an excellent academic record, previous research experience, and a strong commitment to scientific research.
• Candidates must have a high working knowledge of English.
• Candidates invited to previous CRG PhD call interviews are not eligible.
• Candidates performing their Masters at the CRG are not eligible.
• Candidates may not have worked at the CRG for more than 3 months before the call deadline.

How to apply

• Applications must be submitted online - no applications by email will be considered. 
• Candidates must register to use the online application system.
• The online application form requests all of the necessary information for the initial stages of the selection process (General information, education, academic transcripts, scholarships, prizes and awards, research experience, scientific interests and reference letters).
• If the academic transcripts are not in Catalan, Spanish or English applicants should also attach a translation in one of the above-mentioned languages.
• Two reference letters will be automatically requested from the referees proposed by the candidate through the online system.
• Applicants should select a maximum of 2 CRG labs in which they would like to start a PhD.
• Candidates must ensure that all information and documents are included before the deadline, including the reference letters. Incomplete proposals will not be considered.

Once the application is submitted, an acknowledgement of receipt will be automatically sent by e-mail to the applicant.

For any additional information, please check the FAQs HERE. 

Selection process

The selection of the fellows will be based on the candidates' academic qualifications and research excellence.

• Pre-selection: The pre-selection will be based on the candidate's application, reference letters, research interests, motivation, and fit to the selected labs. If the candidate is pre-selected, she/he will be invited to an online panel interview on the 9th January 2026. If successfully passes the panel interview, the candidate will be invited to Barcelona for the presential interviews.
• Presential interviews: The interviews will take place from the 24th to the 26th of February 2026 at the CRG in Barcelona. Accommodation and flight tickets will be provided. Please be aware that during all those days, interviews and presentations will take place. Full details regarding the interview process will be sent to the invited candidates.
• Notification to candidates: Offers will be made to the successful candidates shortly after the interview. Successful candidates would be expected to start the PhD latest by October 2026.

CRG PhD Call Timeline

Fellowships available

• 2 fellowships through the EVO MG doctoral network (herein referred to as MSCA DN) to Irimia and Dias-Franzer Lab. Candidates for these positions must undertake trans-national mobility, which means that candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the call deadline.
• 1 fellowships through the PROTrEIN "Innovative Training Network" (herein referred to as ITN Grants) to Sabido lab and to Beltran lab. Candidates for these positions must undertake trans-national mobility, which means that candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the call deadline. 
• ¹1 fellowship through the EURECA "Innovative Training Network" Marie-Curie “Cancer Epitranscriptomics” to Novoa lab. Candidates for this position must undertake trans-national mobility, which means that candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the call deadline.
• Up to 5 fellowships funded by MICIU/AEI /10.13039/501100011033 and for FSE+
• The remaining positions are funded by individual labs through various sources, including ERC grants, CRG core funding, and other project-based support.

Workshops

We are organizing two online events to discuss what to take into consideration when looking for a PhD position and how to prepare an outstanding application.  These workshops will be delivered by the Training & Academic Office (TAO).

To participate in the event, registration is needed.

ONLINE WORKSHOP - Envision Your Research Future – Finding Your Fit: Labs, Research, and the PhD Application Journey

• Wednesday 15th October 2025 - 10am CET - REGISTRATION HERE
• Thursday 6th November 2025 - 3pm CET - REGISTRATION HERE
• Thursday 20th November 2025 - 11am CET -  REGISTRATION HERE

Contact

For any additional information, please contact the CRG Training & Academic Office at: training@crg.eu