Post-doctoral Researcher in Technological Innovation Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra in Spain

Post-doctoral Researcher in Technological Innovation at the Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (Cima), Universidad de Navarra, in Pamplona, Spain.

This Innovation Fellowship Programme is designed for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher who wants to work at the intersection of science, technology transfer, entrepreneurship, and venture creation. The position sits within Cima’s Technology Transfer and Innovation Unit and is part of a wider strategy to retain scientific talent and accelerate the translation of biomedical research into innovative products and companies.

The fellow will help identify, evaluate, and develop technologies emerging from Cima research, with particular emphasis on translational opportunities and company creation. The role includes early involvement in the formation and development of Cima spin-offs and start-ups, in close collaboration with researchers, clinicians, investors, industry partners, and the internal innovation team. Over an expected two-year development period, the fellow may progressively assume greater responsibility in selected projects and could contribute to the early management of a new start-up, potentially including an interim CEO role during the initial development and financing phase.

The programme focuses on a broad set of innovation areas: advanced gene and cell therapies, RNA-based therapeutics and delivery platforms, immuno-oncology and next-generation immunotherapies, diagnostics and biomarkers, precision medicine tools, artificial intelligence and digital health applications, and medical devices or other translational biomedical technologies. Candidates with a strong scientific background and a clear interest in translating research into business and innovation outcomes, rather than a purely academic career path, are especially encouraged to apply.

Training is a central feature of the fellowship. The selected researcher will receive an individualized training plan combining internal mentoring at Cima with external training in entrepreneurship, business development, strategy, fundraising, intellectual property, and biotech company building. The position offers a pathway toward future entrepreneurial and leadership roles within Cima spin-offs or other ventures created through the programme.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a PhD or equivalent in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, pharmacy, medicine, or a related field. A strong scientific background, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, initiative, and the ability to work across scientific, clinical, and business environments are expected. Previous experience in technology transfer, entrepreneurship, biotech, business development, or pharmaceutical development is welcome but not required. The post is intended for researchers who have recently completed their PhD and are eager to learn venture-building skills on the job.

Funding: this position is funded through the Severo Ochoa Centres of Excellence Programme (CEX2025-001586-S). The contract is full-time and permanent, with the programme framed as an initial development pathway.

Application deadline: 31 October 2026. To apply, candidates should submit a full CV, a motivation letter describing their interest in innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer, a brief summary of relevant scientific or entrepreneurial achievements, and references.