CRG International PhD Programme 2027: Fully Funded Four-Year PhD Positions in Biomedical Sciences and Genomics in Spain

<p><span style="font-size: 16px;">The </span><strong style="font-size: 16px;">CRG International PhD Programme 2027</strong><span style="font-size: 16px;"> is inviting applications from outstanding and motivated graduates from around the world interested in pursuing doctoral research at the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona, Spain. The programme offers an opportunity to join internationally recognised research teams working across genomics, molecular biology, computational biology, cancer research, RNA biology, evolutionary genomics, stem cell research and other advanced areas of biomedical science.</span></p> <p>Successful candidates will receive a competitive salary through a four-year employment contract, together with full health and occupational insurance coverage and inclusion in the Spanish Social Security System. Applicants can express interest in up to two research laboratories when submitting their applications, allowing them to identify the projects and scientific teams that best match their academic backgrounds and research interests.</p> <p>The CRG International PhD Programme is open to candidates of all nationalities who satisfy the academic, research and language requirements. Candidates should have an excellent academic record, previous research experience and a strong commitment to scientific research.</p> <p>Applications for the 2027 intake must be submitted online by <strong>22 November 2026</strong>.</p> <h2>About the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG)</h2> <p>The Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) is an international centre of excellence in biomedical and life sciences research based in Barcelona, Spain. The institution brings together researchers from different scientific disciplines to investigate fundamental biological processes and advance understanding of how living systems function.</p> <p>The CRG provides an international research environment where doctoral students can work alongside experienced scientists, participate in collaborative projects and access advanced scientific infrastructure. Its research teams investigate complex biological questions through experimental and computational approaches, supported by specialised core technology facilities.</p> <p>The institution also places considerable emphasis on academic development and professional training. PhD students benefit from:</p> <ul> <li>Access to first-class core technologies and research facilities.</li> <li>Opportunities to work with international research teams representing different scientific disciplines.</li> <li>Seminars delivered by high-profile invited speakers.</li> <li>Courses in complementary and transferable skills.</li> <li>Opportunities to develop experimental, computational and analytical research capabilities.</li> <li>Exposure to interdisciplinary research and scientific collaboration.</li> </ul> <p>Through these opportunities, the CRG aims to prepare doctoral researchers for scientific careers while contributing to advances in biomedical research and the life sciences.</p> <h2>Overview of the CRG International PhD Programme 2027</h2> <p>The 2027 call provides opportunities to join different research laboratories at the CRG. The available projects cover a broad range of scientific themes, including genome regulation, single-cell biology, RNA processing, cancer, epigenetics, computational genomics, evolutionary biology, protein engineering and neuroscience.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <th>Programme detail</th> <th>Information</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Host institution</td> <td>Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Programme</td> <td>CRG International PhD Programme 2027</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Study level</td> <td>PhD / Doctoral Research</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Location</td> <td>Barcelona, Spain</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Eligible nationalities</td> <td>All nationalities</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Research areas</td> <td>Biomedical sciences, genomics, molecular biology, computational biology and related disciplines</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Contract duration</td> <td>Four years</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Funding</td> <td>Competitive salary and employment contract</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Number of laboratories applicants may select</td> <td>Maximum of two</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Application method</td> <td>Online</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Application deadline</td> <td>22 November 2026</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Expected programme start</td> <td>No later than October 2027</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>Available PhD Research Opportunities and Laboratories</h2> <p>Applicants can choose up to two laboratories in which they would like to undertake their doctoral research. It is important to examine the research interests and candidate requirements of each laboratory before making a selection.</p> <p>The available laboratories offer opportunities for candidates with different scientific backgrounds, including molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, computational biology, bioinformatics, biophysics, genetics and related disciplines.</p> <p>Below is an overview of the participating research laboratories and their PhD opportunities.</p> <h3>1. Sebé-Pedrós Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Genome regulation, single-cell biology, evolutionary genomics, chromatin biology, phylogenetics and transcription factors.</p> <p>The Sebé-Pedrós Lab investigates the origin and evolution of cell-type programmes and the genome-regulation mechanisms associated with them.</p> <p>The research focuses on understanding how different cell types emerge and evolve, as well as the molecular mechanisms responsible for regulating their functions. These include transcription factors, three-dimensional chromatin architecture, histone modifications and other mechanisms involved in controlling gene activity.</p> <p>To investigate these questions, the laboratory combines several advanced research approaches, including:</p> <ul> <li>Single-cell genomics.</li> <li>Chromatin profiling.</li> <li>Phylogenetic comparative methods.</li> <li>Comparative studies involving diverse animals and unicellular eukaryotes.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is looking for motivated candidates with broad interests in evolutionary biology, genome regulation and comparative genomics.</p> <p>Applicants interested in understanding how biological systems and cell types have evolved, and how genome regulation contributes to these processes, may find this laboratory particularly relevant.</p> <h3>2. Velten Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Computational biology, lineage tracing, population cohorts, ageing, blood biology, single-cell genomics, multi-omics, technology development and stem cells.</p> <p>The Velten Lab is offering two PhD positions focused on blood stem cells, ageing and the biological mechanisms associated with the expansion of blood stem cell clones.</p> <p>During ageing, certain blood stem cell clones expand. These expansions may increase the risk of developing blood cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, the reasons behind many of these expansions remain poorly understood.</p> <p>The laboratory is investigating these processes using advanced single-cell technologies and computational approaches.</p> <p><strong>PhD Position 1: Single-cell lineage tracing at the scale of human populations</strong></p> <p>This project will investigate whether the functional properties of expanding blood stem cell clones can predict disease risk more effectively than the presence of somatic mutations.</p> <p>The selected candidate will use a novel, highly scalable single-cell lineage-tracing technology to study blood stem cell clones across large human populations.</p> <p>The project is particularly relevant to understanding how ageing-related changes in blood stem cells contribute to disease development.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>Candidates should have:</p> <ul> <li>A strong background in computational biology.</li> <li>An interest in large population cohorts.</li> <li>A good understanding of molecular biology.</li> </ul> <p><strong>PhD Position 2: Causes of clonal expansions of blood stem cells</strong></p> <p>This project will investigate why blood stem cell clones expand during ageing, particularly in cases where the expansion cannot be explained by known driver mutations.</p> <p>The successful candidate will develop new single-cell multi-omic and functional-genomic technologies to identify the mechanisms responsible for these expansions.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>Candidates should have:</p> <ul> <li>Training in biotechnology, molecular biology or a related discipline.</li> <li>A strong wet-laboratory research background.</li> <li>Basic computational biology skills.</li> </ul> <h3>3. Gebauer Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> RNA-binding proteins, mRNA translation, proteome, poly(A) and cancer.</p> <p>The Gebauer Lab studies how RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) and how these regulatory processes influence cancer progression.</p> <p>RNA-binding proteins play important roles in controlling how genetic information is translated into proteins. Changes in their regulatory activities can affect cellular processes and contribute to disease development.</p> <p>The laboratory seeks to understand the regulatory networks formed by RNA-binding proteins, the mechanisms through which they control translation and how these mechanisms may be used to develop new approaches to cancer treatment.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking highly motivated, creative and collaborative candidates with degrees in:</p> <ul> <li>Molecular biology.</li> <li>Biochemistry.</li> <li>Biotechnology.</li> <li>Related scientific disciplines.</li> </ul> <p>Applicants should be interested in pursuing ambitious research projects. Previous experience in RNA-related research is desirable.</p> <h3>4. Baud Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Social genetic effects, host-microbiome interactions, microbiome transmission, quantitative genetics and computational biology.</p> <p>The Baud Lab investigates how genetic factors from individuals, their social partners and their gut microbiota interact to influence complex traits and diseases.</p> <p>The laboratory examines biological relationships that extend beyond an individual&#8217;s own genetic composition. Its research considers how the genes of other individuals within a social environment, together with the genetic characteristics of gut microorganisms, may influence health and biological outcomes.</p> <p>The research involves advanced statistical analysis of:</p> <ul> <li>Genomes.</li> <li>Metagenomes.</li> <li>Phenotypic data.</li> </ul> <p>Through these approaches, the laboratory aims to understand the complex biological and evolutionary relationships between individuals, their social partners and the microbiota.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>Candidates should have:</p> <ul> <li>A background in quantitative genetics or another discipline with a strong emphasis on quantitative analysis of large datasets.</li> <li>Good computational skills.</li> <li>Programming experience in R or Python.</li> <li>Experience with high-performance computing.</li> </ul> <p>Experience with workflow management systems, such as Nextflow, would be an advantage.</p> <h3>5. Irimia Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Single-cell genomics, cell-type evolution, evolutionary developmental biology, evolutionary innovations, microexons, beta cells, type 2 diabetes, antisense oligonucleotides and RNA biology.</p> <p>The Irimia Lab focuses on cell-type-specific transcriptomes and investigates how these transcriptomes are generated and how they contribute to human health, disease and evolution.</p> <p>The laboratory uses computational and experimental approaches to examine biological processes such as microexon alternative splicing and fine transcriptional regulation.</p> <p>Two PhD positions are available.</p> <p><strong>PhD Position 1: Computational biology, genomics and cell-type evolution</strong></p> <p>This position is intended for a computational biologist interested in genomics, the evolution of cell types and developmental processes.</p> <p>The selected candidate will contribute to research investigating how cell-type-specific biological programmes emerge and evolve.</p> <p><strong>PhD Position 2: Alternative splicing of microexons in pancreatic beta cells</strong></p> <p>This is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) position focused on the functions and regulation of alternative splicing of microexons in pancreatic beta cells.</p> <p>The research will examine these processes in both healthy and diabetes-related contexts.</p> <p>The project offers an opportunity to investigate molecular mechanisms that may contribute to pancreatic beta-cell function and the development of diabetes.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <ul> <li>For PhD Position 1, candidates should have a computational biology background and an interest in genomics and evolutionary biology.</li> <li>For PhD Position 2, candidates should have a wet-laboratory biology background and an interest in RNA biology, alternative splicing and diabetes research.</li> </ul> <h3>6. Martí-Renom Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> 3D genomics, 4D nucleome, epigenetics, cancer, structural biology, computational biology and molecular biology.</p> <p>The Martí-Renom Lab investigates how DNA is organised and folded inside the cell nucleus.</p> <p>Although the human genome contains approximately two metres of DNA, this genetic material must fit inside a nucleus that is only a few micrometres in size. Understanding how DNA is organised within this limited space is an important question in modern genomics.</p> <p>The laboratory also investigates how abnormal DNA organisation and folding may contribute to disease.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory welcomes candidates with a strong interest in experimental and computational biology who are motivated to investigate questions relating to genome organisation, chromatin structure and disease.</p> <h3>7. Höpfler Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Gene regulation, protein synthesis, RNA biology and decay, microtubules and in-vitro reconstitution.</p> <p>The Höpfler Lab, led by Markus Höpfler, investigates fundamental mechanisms responsible for cellular protein and RNA homeostasis.</p> <p>One of its central research interests is peptide-mediated RNA decay. This is an emerging biological phenomenon in which RNA degradation is triggered during translation by the ribosome.</p> <p>The laboratory is offering two PhD positions.</p> <p>The first project will combine biochemical reconstitution with approaches from cell biology and structural biology to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in RNA stability and degradation.</p> <p>The second project will develop and use advanced sequencing methods to identify co-translational RNA decay substrates and investigate the mechanisms responsible for these processes.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is looking for curious and motivated candidates interested in uncovering the molecular mechanisms that regulate RNA stability during translation.</p> <p>A strong background in molecular biology and experience in one or more of the relevant research areas would be advantageous. Candidates should also demonstrate enthusiasm for learning new techniques and working across scientific disciplines.</p> <h3>8. Di Croce Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Epigenetics, chromatin, Polycomb, cancer, single-cell genomics and therapeutic vulnerabilities.</p> <p>The Di Croce Lab investigates how chromatin and epigenetic mechanisms regulate cell identity and how disruptions in these mechanisms contribute to cancer.</p> <p>The laboratory has a particular interest in understanding the molecular processes involved in leukaemia and paediatric brain tumours.</p> <p>Two PhD positions are available.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking candidates with backgrounds in:</p> <ul> <li>Molecular biology.</li> <li>Cell biology.</li> <li>Genomics.</li> <li>Computational biology.</li> </ul> <p>Applicants should have an interest in investigating cancer through mechanistic and multi-omic research approaches.</p> <h3>9. Surrey Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Self-organisation, network engineering, crowding, phase separation, cytoskeleton, microtubules and motor proteins.</p> <p>The Surrey Lab studies the principles underlying biological self-organisation, with a particular focus on the cytoskeleton.</p> <p>Its research brings together several scientific disciplines, including synthetic biology, biophysics, biochemistry, cell biology and mathematical modelling.</p> <p>The laboratory investigates how proteins organise cellular structures, how these structures move and how they contribute to essential cellular processes such as cell division.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>Candidates should have master&#8217;s-level training in:</p> <ul> <li>Biochemistry.</li> <li>Biophysics.</li> <li>Bioengineering.</li> </ul> <p>The ideal applicant will have an interest in understanding cellular organisation from a physical and chemical perspective.</p> <h3>10. Valcárcel Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> RNA biology, alternative splicing, regulatory networks, deep mutagenesis and RNA therapeutics.</p> <p>The Valcárcel Lab investigates the molecular mechanisms responsible for controlling alternative pre-mRNA splicing and how disruptions in these processes contribute to cancer.</p> <p>Alternative splicing is an important process through which cells produce different RNA and protein products from the same gene. Understanding how this process is regulated can provide important insights into normal cellular functions and disease development.</p> <p>The laboratory aims to use its research findings to develop new therapeutic approaches, particularly in oncology.</p> <p>The PhD project will involve collaboration between the research groups of Ben Lehner and Juan Valcárcel.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking candidates with a molecular biology background and a strong interest in combining experimental and computational approaches to investigate gene regulation and its alterations in cancer.</p> <h3>11. Beekman Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Immune cells, epigenetics, surface proteins, single-cell screens and in-vitro engineering.</p> <p>The Beekman Lab investigates normal B-cell differentiation and lymphoma formation, focusing on the epigenetic and molecular processes that influence immune-cell development.</p> <p>Its research examines:</p> <ul> <li>Three-dimensional chromatin organisation.</li> <li>DNA methylation.</li> <li>Single-cell heterogeneity.</li> <li>Healthy and pre-malignant lymphocyte populations.</li> </ul> <p>The laboratory is interested in understanding how differences in epigenetic regulation contribute to immune-system diversity and the development of lymphoma.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking an experimental or computational PhD student interested in studying epigenetic diversity within the immune system.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> The selected PhD student will begin the research project at another research institute in Barcelona.</p> <h3>12. Lin Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Single-cell omics, perturbation screening, human stem-cell models, gene regulation, cell engineering and predictive modelling.</p> <p>The Lin Lab investigates how human cell identities are established and how these processes can be understood and engineered.</p> <p>The laboratory combines single-cell omics, perturbation screening and human stem-cell models to study cell-fate decisions and gene regulation.</p> <p>Its research also explores predictive modelling and approaches that may help researchers understand and engineer human cellular systems.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with:</p> <ul> <li>A quantitative academic background.</li> <li>A strong interest in generative modelling of human biology.</li> <li>An interest in cell engineering and related research approaches.</li> </ul> <h3>13. Benisty Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Environmental DNA, biodiversity genomics, high-mountain lake microbiomes, cross-species codon usage and long-read sequencing.</p> <p>The Benisty Lab investigates how environmental DNA can be used to understand biodiversity and monitor ecological conditions.</p> <p>Its research examines how isolated mountain lakes record environmental pressures through the DNA organisms release into their surroundings. These biological signals can potentially be used to predict ecosystem states and understand environmental changes.</p> <p>The laboratory works across Pyrenean high-mountain lakes, thermal springs and airborne samples.</p> <p>Its research combines three main approaches:</p> <ol start="1"> <li>Large-scale environmental DNA sampling and biobanking.</li> <li>Long-read sequencing of metagenomes.</li> <li>Comparative genomic analysis, ranging from community composition to codon usage.</li> </ol> <p>The research is part of the multidisciplinary project known as PyriSentinel.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory welcomes motivated candidates interested in multidisciplinary research and international scientific collaboration.</p> <p>Potential research activities include:</p> <ul> <li>Fieldwork and environmental DNA sampling.</li> <li>Microbial ecology.</li> <li>Bioinformatics.</li> <li>Handling long-read sequencing datasets.</li> </ul> <h3>14. Stammnitz Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Biosensor proteins, chemical biology, high-throughput protein screening, molecular evolution and computational genomics.</p> <p>The Stammnitz Lab investigates how sensor proteins recognise and monitor different environmental chemicals.</p> <p>The laboratory aims to understand the molecular rules that allow these proteins to detect diverse and specific chemical compounds.</p> <p>Its research combines:</p> <ol start="1"> <li>Large-scale mutagenesis and functional data generation.</li> <li>Artificial intelligence-enhanced evolutionary modelling.</li> <li>Engineering of chemically inducible protein folds.</li> </ol> <p>The work brings together experimental biology, computational approaches and protein engineering.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking motivated candidates with broad interests in:</p> <ul> <li>Chemical biology.</li> <li>Protein engineering.</li> <li>Experimental genomics.</li> <li>Computational genomics.</li> </ul> <h3>15. Dierssen Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Neurodegeneration, retrotransposons, in-vivo validation, Down syndrome and long interspersed nucleotide elements.</p> <p>The Dierssen Lab investigates the neurobiology of learning and memory and how these processes are disrupted in brain disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.</p> <p>The laboratory uses integrated research approaches to understand the molecular processes involved in the initiation and progression of neurodegeneration.</p> <p>Its research combines:</p> <ul> <li>Multi-omic approaches.</li> <li>Gene editing.</li> <li>In-vivo causal testing.</li> <li>Investigations into retrotransposons.</li> </ul> <p>A particular focus is understanding the role of retrotransposons in neurological and neurodegenerative processes.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking highly motivated candidates interested in neuroscience and genetic regulation.</p> <p>Applicants should have solid experience and expertise in either molecular biology or computational biology. Previous experience with animal models would be preferable.</p> <h3>16. Tabara Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Mitochondria, mitochondrial DNA, organelle dynamics, rare diseases and ageing.</p> <p>The Tabara Lab investigates mitochondrial biology, with particular attention to the mechanisms responsible for maintaining mitochondrial genomes.</p> <p>Mitochondria are essential cellular structures responsible for producing much of the energy required to sustain life. Their dysfunction has been associated with several conditions, including inherited disorders and common age-related diseases.</p> <p>The laboratory studies the mechanisms regulating mitochondrial dynamics to identify potential new therapeutic interventions.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>The laboratory is seeking a motivated PhD candidate interested in investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial genome maintenance.</p> <p>Previous experience in mitochondrial biology would be an advantage.</p> <h3>17. Novoa Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Protein mistranslation, tRNA sequencing, dark proteome, peptide sequencing, nanopore technology, AI modelling, tRNA therapeutics, sperm biology, inheritance, DNA, RNA, spermatogenesis and RNA modifications.</p> <p>The Novoa Lab investigates RNA dynamics, with a particular focus on RNA modifications, also known as the epitranscriptome.</p> <p>The laboratory combines experimental and computational approaches, many of which are supported by nanopore sequencing technology.</p> <p>Its research examines how RNA modifications and related processes change during development, stress and disease. These investigations include ribosome heterogeneity, cancer and the transmission of biological information across generations.</p> <p>The laboratory is seeking a highly motivated PhD student, ideally with a hybrid wet-lab and computational background, to work on one of two projects.</p> <p><strong>Project 1: Protein mistranslation and its effects on cellular function</strong></p> <p>This project investigates the extent to which protein mistranslation occurs in healthy cells and how increased mistranslation may sometimes benefit cells under particular conditions.</p> <p>It will also explore how protein mistranslation can contribute to the formation of neoantigens, which may subsequently influence immune responses.</p> <p>The project offers an opportunity to investigate the relationship between RNA biology, protein production and immune-system activity.</p> <p><strong>Project 2: Sperm development, maturation and inheritance</strong></p> <p>The second project investigates how sperm cells are formed and mature.</p> <p>The research aims to identify the molecular carriers responsible for transmitting environmental exposures to the next generation.</p> <p><strong>Who should apply?</strong></p> <p>Candidates should be highly motivated and interested in one of the two research projects. A hybrid wet-lab and computational background would be particularly relevant.</p> <h3>18. Serrano Lab</h3> <p><strong>Research areas:</strong> Protein design, artificial intelligence, protein masking and nanobody design.</p> <p>The Serrano Lab combines protein-design technologies with the engineering of a bacterial vector to develop approaches for treating human lung diseases.</p> <p>Its research brings together artificial intelligence, protein engineering and drug-design approaches.</p> <p>The laboratory is seeking a PhD student with experience using artificial intelligence tools for protein and drug design.</p> <p>Candidates interested in applying computational and AI-driven approaches to biomedical research and therapeutic development may find this opportunity particularly relevant.</p> <h2>Eligibility Criteria for the CRG International PhD Programme 2027</h2> <p>The CRG International PhD Programme is open to candidates of any nationality. However, applicants must meet the programme&#8217;s academic, research and language requirements at the time of the application deadline.</p> <p>The institution emphasises that applications may be declared ineligible and withdrawn from further consideration if it becomes clear, before, during or after the evaluation process, that the candidate does not meet the eligibility requirements.</p> <h3>1. Academic qualifications</h3> <p>Applicants must have obtained:</p> <ul> <li>A university Bachelor&#8217;s Degree; and</li> <li>A Master&#8217;s Degree in biomedical sciences within the European Higher Education Area, with a minimum of 300 ECTS credits in total; or</li> <li>An equivalent university degree that allows the candidate to begin a PhD thesis in Spain.</li> </ul> <p>Candidates who expect to obtain the required qualification by September 2027 are also eligible to apply.</p> <p>The reference to an equivalent qualification is important for international applicants whose university degrees were obtained outside the European Higher Education Area. Their qualifications must be recognised as sufficient to allow them to begin doctoral studies in Spain.</p> <h3>2. Excellent academic record</h3> <p>Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance.</p> <p>The CRG is looking for candidates with the academic foundation necessary to undertake demanding doctoral research in a competitive scientific environment.</p> <h3>3. Previous research experience</h3> <p>Candidates must have previous research experience and demonstrate a strong commitment to scientific research.</p> <p>The relevance of previous research experience may depend on the laboratory and project selected. Applicants should therefore highlight research activities, laboratory experience, technical competencies and academic projects that demonstrate their preparation for the proposed doctoral work.</p> <h3>4. English-language proficiency</h3> <p>Applicants must have a high working knowledge of English.</p> <p>Since the programme involves international research teams, scientific discussions, academic presentations and research activities, candidates must be comfortable communicating and working in English.</p> <h3>5. Previous CRG interview restrictions</h3> <p>Candidates who were invited to interviews for previous CRG PhD calls are not eligible to apply for this call.</p> <h3>6. Master&#8217;s students at the CRG</h3> <p>Candidates currently undertaking their Master&#8217;s studies at the CRG are not eligible.</p> <h3>7. Previous employment at the CRG</h3> <p>Applicants must not have worked at the CRG for more than three months before the application deadline.</p> <p>Candidates should carefully review all these conditions before submitting their applications.</p> <h2>How to Apply for the CRG International PhD Programme 2027</h2> <p>Applications must be submitted through the CRG&#8217;s online application system.</p> <p>The institution will not accept applications submitted by email. Candidates must register on the online application platform and complete the required application form.</p> <p>The application process involves providing personal information, academic qualifications, research experience, scientific interests and referee details.</p> <h3>Step 1: Review the available research laboratories</h3> <p>Before beginning the application, applicants should carefully review the participating laboratories and their research projects.</p> <p>Candidates can select a maximum of two laboratories in which they would like to undertake their PhD studies.</p> <p>This is an important decision because the selection committee will consider the applicant&#8217;s research interests, motivation and suitability for the selected laboratories.</p> <p>Applicants should therefore prioritise research groups whose scientific interests align with their academic background, previous research experience and future research goals.</p> <h3>Step 2: Register on the online application platform</h3> <p>Candidates must register on the CRG&#8217;s online application system to access the application form.</p> <p>Applications submitted through other channels, including email, will not be considered.</p> <h3>Step 3: Complete the application form</h3> <p>The online application form requests several categories of information required for the initial stages of the selection process.</p> <p>Applicants should be prepared to provide:</p> <ul> <li>General personal information.</li> <li>Educational background.</li> <li>Academic transcripts.</li> <li>Scholarships received.</li> <li>Prizes and awards.</li> <li>Previous research experience.</li> <li>Scientific interests.</li> <li>Reference-letter information.</li> </ul> <p>Candidates should ensure that the information supplied is accurate and complete.</p> <h3>Step 4: Submit academic transcripts</h3> <p>Applicants must provide their academic transcripts as part of the application.</p> <p>If the transcripts are not written in Catalan, Spanish or English, candidates must also attach a translation into one of these languages.</p> <p>It is advisable to prepare the necessary academic documents before starting the application to avoid delays.</p> <h3>Step 5: Provide referee information</h3> <p>Two reference letters are required.</p> <p>The online application system will automatically request these letters from the referees nominated by the applicant.</p> <p>Candidates should therefore provide the correct contact information for their referees and inform them in advance that they will receive a reference request from the CRG.</p> <p>Importantly, the reference letters must be received before the application deadline. An application that is missing required documents or reference letters will not be considered complete.</p> <h3>Step 6: Select up to two research laboratories</h3> <p>Applicants must indicate a maximum of two CRG laboratories in which they would like to start their PhD.</p> <p>Candidates should make their selections carefully and explain their scientific interests in a way that demonstrates a clear connection between their academic experience and the research interests of the chosen laboratories.</p> <h3>Step 7: Review and submit the application</h3> <p>Before submitting, candidates should verify that all required information and supporting documents have been included.</p> <p>The CRG will not consider incomplete applications.</p> <p>Once the application has been submitted successfully, the applicant will automatically receive an acknowledgement of receipt by email.</p> <p>Applicants should retain this confirmation for their records.</p> <h2>Selection Process for the CRG International PhD Programme 2027</h2> <p>The selection process will be based on applicants&#8217; academic qualifications and research excellence.</p> <p>The CRG will evaluate applications to identify candidates with strong academic preparation, relevant research experience, clear scientific interests and the potential to contribute to the selected laboratories.</p> <p>The selection process involves three main stages.</p> <h3>Stage 1: Pre-selection</h3> <p>The initial assessment will be based on the information provided in the application.</p> <p>The selection committee will consider:</p> <ul> <li>Academic qualifications.</li> <li>Academic transcripts.</li> <li>Reference letters.</li> <li>Research interests.</li> <li>Motivation.</li> <li>Suitability for the selected laboratories.</li> </ul> <p>Candidates who successfully pass this initial assessment will be invited to participate in an online panel interview.</p> <p>The online panel interviews are scheduled for <strong>13 January 2027</strong>.</p> <h3>Stage 2: In-person interviews in Barcelona</h3> <p>Candidates who successfully pass the online panel interview will be invited to Barcelona for the in-person interview stage.</p> <p>The interviews are scheduled to take place from <strong>23 to 26 February 2027</strong> at the Centre for Genomic Regulation.</p> <p>The CRG will provide accommodation and flight tickets for invited candidates.</p> <p>Applicants should note that the in-person selection stage will take place across several days and will involve interviews and presentations.</p> <p>Detailed information about the interview process will be communicated to candidates who receive invitations.</p> <h3>Stage 3: Notification of successful candidates</h3> <p>Following the interviews, successful candidates will receive offers shortly afterwards.</p> <p>Candidates selected for the programme will be expected to begin their PhD studies no later than October 2027.</p> <h2>Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support</h2> <p>Selected PhD students will receive a competitive salary through an annual employment contract lasting four years, in accordance with applicable national regulations.</p> <p>This means the programme provides an employment-based doctoral arrangement rather than simply describing the funding as a one-time scholarship award.</p> <p>The fellowship package includes the following benefits:</p> <h3>1. Four-year employment contract</h3> <p>Successful candidates will receive an annual work contract for four years.</p> <p>The contract will provide financial support throughout the doctoral research period, subject to the applicable national regulations.</p> <h3>2. Competitive salary</h3> <p>Selected students will receive a competitive salary in accordance with the relevant national regulations.</p> <p>The published call does not specify a fixed salary amount. Applicants should consult the CRG for further information about the applicable salary conditions.</p> <h3>3. Health and occupational insurance</h3> <p>All PhD students will receive full health and occupational insurance coverage.</p> <p>This provides insurance protection during their doctoral employment.</p> <h3>4. Spanish Social Security coverage</h3> <p>Selected students will be included in the Spanish Social Security System.</p> <h3>5. Research and academic development</h3> <p>In addition to financial support, doctoral students will benefit from the CRG&#8217;s research environment, including access to advanced technologies, international research teams, seminars and complementary training opportunities.</p> <h3>Sources of fellowship funding</h3> <p>The programme&#8217;s available positions are supported through different funding sources.</p> <ul> <li>Up to five fellowships are funded by MICIU/AEI and FSE+.</li> <li>The remaining positions are funded by individual research laboratories through different sources, including European Research Council (ERC) grants, CRG core funding and other project-based support.</li> </ul> <p>The precise funding source may therefore differ depending on the position and laboratory.</p> <h2>Online Application Workshop: How to Prepare an Outstanding PhD Application</h2> <p>The CRG is organising an online workshop for prospective applicants interested in understanding the PhD application process and improving their applications.</p> <p>The workshop will be delivered by the institution&#8217;s Training &amp; Academic Office (TAO).</p> <p>The session is designed to help prospective doctoral candidates understand how to identify suitable research laboratories, assess research opportunities and prepare a competitive application.</p> <p><strong>Workshop details:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Workshop title:</strong> Envision Your Research Future – Finding Your Fit: Labs, Research, and the PhD Application Journey.</li> <li><strong>Date:</strong> Thursday, 12 November 2026.</li> <li><strong>Time:</strong> 11:00 a.m. Central European Time (CET).</li> <li><strong>Format:</strong> Online.</li> <li><strong>Organiser:</strong> CRG Training &amp; Academic Office.</li> </ul> <p>The workshop will cover topics including:</p> <ul> <li>How to identify the right research laboratory for a PhD.</li> <li>How to evaluate research interests and laboratory fit.</li> <li>How to prepare an outstanding application.</li> <li>Expert tips for improving an applicant&#8217;s chances of success.</li> </ul> <p>Registration is required to participate.</p> <p>Prospective applicants are encouraged to register through the workshop information provided on the official CRG call page.</p> <h2>Important Dates and Application Timeline</h2> <p>Applicants should take note of the following dates when preparing their applications.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <th>Activity</th> <th>Date</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Online application workshop</td> <td>12 November 2026</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Application deadline</td> <td>22 November 2026</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Online panel interviews</td> <td>13 January 2027</td> </tr> <tr> <td>In-person interviews in Barcelona</td> <td>23–26 February 2027</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Notification of successful candidates</td> <td>Shortly after the interviews</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Expected PhD commencement</td> <td>No later than October 2027</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Applicants should submit their applications well before the closing date to ensure that all documents and reference letters are received on time.</p> <h2>Contact Information</h2> <p>For additional information about the CRG International PhD Programme, applicants can contact the institution&#8217;s Training &amp; Academic Office.</p> <p><strong>Email:</strong> <a href="mailto:training@crg.eu">training@crg.eu</a></p> <p>Applicants can also consult the official programme page and its Frequently Asked Questions section for further information about the application and selection processes.</p> <h2>Conclusion</h2> <p>The CRG International PhD Programme 2027 presents an opportunity for academically strong and research-oriented graduates to pursue doctoral studies at an internationally recognised research institution in Barcelona, Spain.</p> <p>With research opportunities spanning genomics, computational biology, molecular biology, cancer research, RNA biology, epigenetics, neuroscience, protein engineering and evolutionary biology, the programme offers candidates the opportunity to work on important scientific questions within specialised international research teams.</p> <p>The four-year employment contract, competitive salary, health and occupational insurance coverage, and access to advanced research facilities make this a significant opportunity for graduates seeking to build careers in scientific research.</p> <p>However, applicants should pay close attention to the academic eligibility requirements and the specific expectations of their preferred laboratories. Selecting suitable research groups, preparing a strong application and ensuring that both reference letters arrive before the deadline will be essential.</p> <p>Interested candidates are encouraged to review the available research projects, attend the online application workshop and complete their applications before <strong>22 November 2026</strong>.</p> <h2>APPLY FOR THE CRG INTERNATIONAL PHD PROGRAMME 2027</h2> <p>Applications must be submitted through the official CRG online application platform. Email applications will not be accepted.</p> <p><strong>Application deadline: 22 November 2026</strong></p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong><a href="https://www.crg.eu/en/node/1414765" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Visit the official CRG International PhD Programme 2027 page and start your application</a></strong></h4> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>For additional information, visit the <a href="https://www.crg.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Centre for Genomic Regulation</a> website or contact <a href="mailto:training@crg.eu">training@crg.eu</a>.</strong></h4> <hr /> <h4 class="p2" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span class="s2">Find more global opportunities </span></strong><strong><span class="s2"><a href="http://opportunitiesforyouth.org/">here</a></span></strong></h4> <p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/2026/11/04/crg-international-phd-programme-2027/">CRG International PhD Programme 2027: Fully Funded Four-Year PhD Positions in Biomedical Sciences and Genomics in Spain</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://opportunitiesforyouth.org">Opportunities for Youth</a>.</p>