The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) is a cutting-edge institute addressing global public health challenges through research, translation into policy and education. ISGlobal has a broad portfolio in communicable and non-communicable diseases including environmental and climate determinants, and applies a multidisciplinary scientific approach ranging from the molecular to the population level. Research is organized in five programs: Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health; Environment and Health over the Lifecourse; Global Viral and Bacterial Infections; Malaria and Neglected Parasitic Diseases and Maternal Child and Reproductive Health. ISGlobal is accredited with the Severo Ochoa distinction, a seal of excellence of the Spanish Science Ministry.
In the framework of the ISGlobal “Centre of Excellence Severo Ochoa 2024-2028 Programme” (CEX2023-0001290-S) from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, and the Spanish Research State Agency (MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033), ISGlobal is seeking a motivated and dedicated field technician to join our team in a participatory research project focused on the health impacts of heat on agricultural migrant workers.
The field technician will be based in the research group of Dr. Ana Requena, with co-supervision from Dr. Anna Brugulat-Panés, Dr. Xavier Basagaña and Dr. Michelle Turner. They will conduct research in the framework of vulnerable populations and occupational health, including of migrant workers, climate change and occupational heat exposure in national and international projects with a focus on participatory research and co-creation methods.
This position will be supported by funding from the “Centro de Excelencia Severo Ochoa 2024-2028” Program (CEX 2023-0001290-S) from the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, and the Spanish Research State Agency (MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033).
The successful candidate will support the pilot implementation and evaluation of a co-created intervention aimed at reducing the health risks associated with occupational heat exposure among agricultural workers. The intervention, developed through a participatory co-creation process with farmworkers, farmers and other stakeholders, consists of a multi-component package including a mobile field station providing shade and rest, drinking water, a first-aid kit, sunscreen and mosquito repellent, together with heat-adapted work clothing (t-shirts, trousers and caps). The pilot will be implemented across three agricultural sites involving three farmers and approximately 35 farmworkers.
The field technician will contribute to the day-to-day implementation and collect data during four weeks of monitoring (control and intervention periods), using mixed-methods approaches including physiological measurements (urine hydration assessment using a refractometer, body and environmental temperature sensors, and measurements of environmental heat exposure), cognitive performance tests, questionnaires on heat-related symptoms, sleep quality and intervention experience, structured field observations, and focus group discussions with farmworkers and farmers to assess the acceptability, feasibility and potential improvements of the intervention.
AUXILIAR TASKS
This job description reflects the present requirements of the post but may evolve at any time in the future as duties and responsibilities change and/or develop providing there is appropriate consultation with the post-holder.
This job description is not a definitive or exhaustive list of responsibilities but identifies the key responsibilities and tasks of the post holder. The specific objectives of the post holder will be subject to review as part of the individual professional assessment process.
The post holder will adhere to ISGlobal principles contained in People management policy, including Equity, diversity and health safety. The post holder will respect, and be accountable to ensure ISGlobal policies and procedures.
Degree or Master's in Public Health, Global Health, Environmental Health, Occupational Health or a related discipline.
Previous experience in research projects involving quantitative and qualitative data collection.
Experience conducting fieldwork and interacting with study participants.
Experience working with migrant populations or other socially vulnerable groups.
Good knowledge of agricultural work and the occupational context in Spain.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently in field settings.
Fluency in Catalan and/or Spanish.
Valid driving licence and availability to travel daily to agricultural sites in Lleida.
Legal Requirements: Must be legally authorized to work in the country where the position is based.
Physical Requirements: Capability to conduct fieldwork, which may involve outdoor activities and possibly travel to remote locations.
Travel Requirements: Willingness to travel as needed for fieldwork, conferences, and community engagement events.
Availability: Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends, especially when engaging with community groups.
Experience working with vulnerable populations is desirable.
Contract: 1-2 months, full time
Salary: According to ISGlobal internal salary scale
Work-Life Balance: 36 days off per year (23 vacation days + 13 personal days)
Start date: July 2026
Applicants must complete the application form and upload a CV and a Cover Letter. Each document must be clearly named with the candidate’s name and surname.
Applications will remain open until 16th of July.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates may be contacted and interviewed as applications are received. Interviews may take place during the application period.
We encourage diverse applications, including but not limited to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical abilities, and political beliefs.
The selection process is designed in two phases:
1- Interview phase of a technical nature, with the team that requires the incorporation. To assess the person's skills and CV.
2 - Meeting with HR with the finalist(s) to finish assessing the profile and discuss contractual and institutional issues.
If needed any technical test could be passed. A Psychological Competency Evaluation Test will be required for the structural or transversal positions.
In accordance with the OTM-R principles, a gender-balanced recruitment panel is formed for every vacancy at the beginning of the process. After reviewing the content of the applications, the panel will start the interviews, with at least one technical and one administrative interview. A profile questionnaire as well as a technical exercise may be required during the process.
In ISGlobal we are committed to maintaining and developing a work environment in which the values and principles of our organization are respected and equal opportunities between women and men be promoted in each of the areas in which we operate, not tolerating discrimination based on criteria such as age, gender, marital status, race, ethnicity, functional diversity, political leanings, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
We confirm our commitment towards the value of the diversity of our staff and student population and seek to promote peace, equity, diversity and inclusion as essential elements in contribution to improving health worldwide.
