Probing conformational membrane protein dynamics by time-resolved X-ray solution scattering (TR-XSS)

Do you want to explore how proteins move, react, and function?

You will join the ID09 team at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and study the structural dynamics of membrane proteins using time-resolved X-ray solution scattering. The mission of the ESRF beamline ID09 is ultrafast X-ray science, providing unique opportunities to follow molecular processes as they happen.

In this PhD project, you will investigate two biologically and medically important membrane proteins: the zinc-transporting ATPase SsZntA and the dopamine D2 receptor. Using laser-triggered caged compounds, you will initiate ATP- and ligand-driven reactions and follow the resulting structural changes from milliseconds to seconds. This will reveal how these proteins work at the molecular level and provide insight into mechanisms that are central to membrane protein function.

A key part of the project will also be to develop and apply improved TR-XSS workflows that extend the accessible time range and reduce sample consumption. These developments will help make time-resolved structural studies possible for challenging membrane proteins that are slow, complex, or difficult to produce in large quantities.

The project offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge methods, advanced synchrotron experiments, and highly relevant biological systems. By combining ambitious scientific questions with advanced experimental and analytical approaches, you will gain a strong interdisciplinary skill set and be placed in an excellent position for future opportunities in academia, research infrastructure, and the life-science sector.

Further information may be obtained from:
Matteo Levantino (tel.: +33 (0)4 76 88 45 45, email: matteo.levantino@esrf.fr)

Expected profile

• Degree allowing enrollment for a PhD (such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, molecular biology or closely related science
• A background in biophysics is desirable
• Proficiency in English (working language at the ESRF)

Compliance with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule: candidates may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the host institute’s country for more than twelve months in the three years immediately before the application deadline of 15 October 2026.

All researchers recruited must be doctoral candidates, i.e. not already working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment, and the candidate must have obtained and provide proof of a diploma at the time of application. The European Commission/MSCA may consider a student eligible provided that the university certifies in writing that the degree has been completed. The diploma will have to be provided at a later stage and is a mandatory requirement for enrolment in a doctoral school.

Candidates must satisfy the conditions for enrolment in a doctoral programme. Candidates who are shortlisted for interview will be invited to apply for the relevant Umea PhD programme at a later date.

Working conditions

You shall be enrolled in Umeå University Doctoral School as a condition of your recruitment.

The ESRF contract is for three years as 2 years renewable by 1 year. This will be followed by a fourth year at Umeå University and supported by the university.

Do you recognize yourself in this description? Apply now for your next professional adventure!

What we offer:

1. Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries
2. Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges
3. Come and live in a vibrant city, in the heart of the Alps, and Europe's Green Capital 2022
4. Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life
5. Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for your relocation to Grenoble

For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to https://www.esrf.fr/home/Jobs/what-we-offer.html

The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.

Company description

More details about the Nextstep Doctoral Programme on www.nextstep-programme.eu

NEXTSTEP will train 36 enthusiastic researchers to exploit the unique and transversal capabilities of analytical research infrastructures in tackling the challenges associated with sustainable development and industrial competitiveness in the areas of “Health”, “Digital, Industry & Space”, “Climate, Energy and Mobility” and “Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment”, which are at the heart of Horizon Europe. Host laboratories: ESRF and ILL (France), FZJ (Germany), AREA (Italy), NTNU (Norway).