Job Description

CRAG is launching an international call to showcase the Center’s opportunities to outstanding early-career researchers interested in establishing their first independent research group.

The Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) is an international center of excellence devoted to cutting-edge research in plant and farm animal genomics and biotechnology. CRAG integrates fundamental, translational, and applied research with the mission of generating scientific knowledge, technological advances, and innovative solutions to address global challenges in agriculture, sustainability, and food security.

CRAG is a public research center supported by a consortium of the National Research Council (CSIC), the Catalan Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), and the University of Barcelona (UB), and it belongs to CERCA, the public Catalan network of research Institutes (http://cerca.cat). Positioned as a national and international leader, CRAG is a dynamic, multicultural center of excellence with strong gender balance, currently hosting more than 250 people. It plays an active role in major European and global research alliances and serves as a hub that consistently attracts top‑tier junior and senior researchers from around the world.

Located within the UAB Campus in Barcelona, CRAG hosts a vibrant and interdisciplinary scientific community composed of independent research groups, technology platforms, and specialized support units. The Center provides an international environment, state-of-the-art scientific infrastructures, and strong institutional support for talent development, knowledge transfer, and career progression.

Call Description

CRAG is launching an international call to showcase the Center’s opportunities to outstanding early-career researchers interested in establishing their first independent research group. This call is aimed at high-potential young scientists who wish to develop innovative and ambitious research programs within CRAG’s strategic areas:

•    Plant and animal genomics 
•    Molecular and cellular biology 
•    Genome editing and synthetic biology 
•    Stress biology and adaptation 
•    Computational biology, statistics and big-data driven approaches 
•    Agricultural biotechnology and sustainability 

Selected candidates will be invited to a two‑day symposium where they will present their research lines, engage with researchers across CRAG’s programs, and explore the Center’s advanced technological infrastructures. The symposium will also include detailed briefings on the different funding opportunities available for upcoming Junior Group Leader positions and support provided by CRAG.

Eligibility

•    PhD in a relevant discipline. 
•    Demonstrated scientific excellence through high-quality publications and international projection. 
•    Clear potential for building an internationally competitive research line. 
•    At least three years postdoctoral experience.

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit the following documents:

1.    Curriculum Vitae and Track Record (up to 2 pages) including:

•    Personal details, education, key qualifications, current position(s) and relevant previous positions. 
•    Names of their PhD supervisor(s) and postdoctoral mentor(s).
•    List of up to five research outputs demonstrating the applicant’s advancement of knowledge in their field, prioritizing recent achievements, along with selected examples of significant peer recognition. Brief explanation of the significance of each output, the applicant’s contribution, and the importance of the listed peer‑recognition examples.

2.    Abstract including future research prospects (1 page)

Evaluation Process

The selection process will include:

1. Selection. An international committee will evaluate all applications based on:

•    Scientific excellence 
•    Leadership potential 
•    Originality and feasibility of the research vision 
•    Fit with CRAG strategic priorities 

2. Invitation to symposium for eight selected candidates (9-10 June 2026)

The symposium will include:

•    A scientific talk 55’ (40’ presentation + 15’ Q&A) including research achievements and future prospects
•    Meetings with CRAG group leaders and Programme Coordinators
•    A visit to CRAG’s scientific platforms and facilities

Tentative Agenda

•    June 8: Arrival.
•    June 9: 4 talks in the morning + interviews with researchers and visit to crag. Dinner.
•    June 10: 4 talks in the morning. Lunch and departure.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file through the email: CRAG‑YTSym@cragenomica.es, by April 26, 2026.
Key dates: 
•    Deadline for applications: April 26
•    Invitation to selected candidates: May 4
•    Acceptance: May 10

Contact

For questions about the call or the application process: CRAG‑YTSym@cragenomica.es