PhD Candidate in Bacterial Respiratory Diseases in Piglets Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology in France

IRTA is offering a fully relevant PhD opportunity in bacterial respiratory diseases in piglets, based in Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain, within the Animal Health program. The project sits in the research line on endemic respiratory diseases and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and is part of a national research project funded by the Spanish State Research Agency (AEI).

The PhD candidate will investigate markers from pathogens, the nasal microbiota, and the host pig to better understand predisposition to disease. This is a strong fit for candidates interested in veterinary microbiology, infectious disease, host-pathogen interactions, and swine health. The work involves enrolling in a PhD program, coordinating and executing research activities, participating in group meetings and seminars, providing regular updates to supervisors, assisting with laboratory routines, and ultimately writing a PhD thesis and publishing scientific papers.

The key researchers named for the project are Virginia Aragón, Florencia Correa-Fiz, and Marina Sibila. The position is hosted by the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), which emphasizes a collaborative environment and professional development.

Eligibility and requirements: applicants should hold a master’s degree or equivalent in a biological science such as microbiology, veterinary medicine, biotechnology, or a related area. Candidates must be eligible for admission to a doctoral program at a Catalan university and must not already hold a PhD. The post also looks for interest in microbiology and infectious diseases, strong teamwork and initiative, good analytical and organizational skills, and good spoken and written English. Desirable assets include basic laboratory experience, communication skills, a driver’s license, and knowledge of Catalan and Spanish.

Funding and contract: the contract runs for 4 years with salary in 14 payments. The gross annual salary is 23,322.09 EUR for the first three years and 26,325.47 EUR in the fourth year. In addition, the doctoral grant provides up to 7,000 EUR to support research stays at other R&D centres and tuition fees for the full PhD programme. The role is full-time (37.5 hours/week) with flexible arrangements, remote work up to 6 days per month, vacation and conciliation days, and training opportunities.

Application deadline: 21 October 2026, 23:54 (Europe/Madrid). Candidates should apply via the IRTA talent portal by submitting a CV and motivation letter. Selected candidates must provide proof of admission to or enrolment in a doctoral programme at the time of contract signing. Non-EU candidates may receive support from IRTA’s People Department with residence and work permits.