PhD in Biophysics Membrane Protein Dynamics in ESRF – France

Summary

A PhD position in Biophysics focusing on Membrane Protein Dynamics is available at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France, in collaboration with Umea University. The project, part of the Nextstep Doctoral Programme, involves probing conformational membrane protein dynamics using time-resolved X-ray solution scattering (TR-XSS). The successful candidate will investigate zinc-transporting ATPase SsZntA and dopamine D2 receptor, developing improved TR-XSS workflows. The position offers a competitive compensation package, relocation support, and a 36-month contract, renewable for a total of 3 years at ESRF, with a 4th year supported by Umea University. Applicants must hold an MSc or equivalent in a relevant science field, have English proficiency, and comply with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule. The application deadline is October 15, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	ID09 Ultrafast X-ray Science
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Biophysics
Research Area	Membrane Protein Dynamics, Time-resolved X-ray Solution Scattering (TR-XSS), Structural Dynamics, Molecular Mechanisms
Degree Required	MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent in chemistry, physics, molecular biology or closely related science
Experience	Background in biophysics desirable
Funding	Nextstep MSCA Doctoral Programme, Umea University Doctoral School
Contract Duration	36 months, renewable for 1 year, plus a 4th year at Umea University
Language	English
Deadline	2026-10-15
Required Documents	Proof of diploma
Employer Address	Grenoble, France
Employer Contact	Matteo Levantino, +33 (0)4 76 88 45 45, [email protected]

About the Project

The PhD project focuses on probing conformational membrane protein dynamics using time-resolved X-ray solution scattering (TR-XSS). The research will investigate the structural dynamics of two biologically and medically significant membrane proteins: zinc-transporting ATPase SsZntA and the dopamine D2 receptor. By using laser-triggered caged compounds to initiate ATP and ligand-driven reactions, the project aims to follow resulting structural changes from milliseconds to seconds, revealing the molecular mechanisms central to membrane protein function. A key aspect involves developing and applying improved TR-XSS workflows to extend the accessible time range and reduce sample consumption, making studies possible for challenging membrane proteins.

Key Responsibilities

• Study structural dynamics of membrane proteins, specifically zinc-transporting ATPase SsZntA and dopamine D2 receptor.
• Initiate ATP and ligand-driven reactions using laser-triggered caged compounds.
• Follow resulting structural changes from milliseconds to seconds to reveal molecular mechanisms.
• Develop and apply improved TR-XSS workflows to extend accessible time range and reduce sample consumption.

Required Skills

• Degree allowing enrollment for PhD such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent in chemistry, physics, molecular biology or closely related science.
• Background in biophysics (desirable).
• Proficiency in English.
• Compliance with Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule (not resided or carried out main activity in host country for more than 12 months in 3 years before deadline).
• Must be a doctoral candidate not already working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree.
• Must have obtained proof of diploma at application.
• Ability to satisfy conditions for enrollment in a doctoral program.

Who Should Apply

This PhD position is suitable for candidates with a Master's degree (MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea, or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, molecular biology, or a closely related scientific field. A background in biophysics is desirable. Applicants must be proficient in English and meet the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule, meaning they should not have resided or carried out their main activity in France for more than 12 months in the three years prior to the deadline. Candidates must not already hold a doctoral degree and must be eligible for PhD enrollment at Umea University.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and allowances package.
• Relocation support to Grenoble.
• Opportunity to join an innovative international research institute with a diverse workforce from 38 countries.
• Collaboration with global experts.
• Living in Grenoble, a vibrant city recognized as Europe Green Capital 2022.
• Workplace designed to support quality of life.
• Enrollment in Umea University Doctoral School.
• Gain a strong interdisciplinary skill set.

About the Employer

ESRF (European Synchrotron Radiation Facility) is an innovative international research institute located in Grenoble, France, with a workforce from 38 different countries. It is recognized as a top research facility worldwide, utilizing a particle accelerator to produce intense X-ray beams for thousands of scientists in fields like biology, medicine, and materials science. Beamline ID09 focuses on ultrafast X-ray science. ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages disabled persons to apply. It is situated in Grenoble, a vibrant city in the heart of the Alps, which was Europe Green Capital 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the research focus of this PhD position?

The research focuses on probing conformational membrane protein dynamics by time-resolved X-ray solution scattering (TR-XSS), investigating proteins like zinc-transporting ATPase SsZntA and dopamine D2 receptor.

What is the duration of the contract?

The contract is full-time for 36 months, renewable for an additional year, with a fourth year supported by Umea University.

What are the main eligibility criteria for applicants?

Applicants must hold an MSc or equivalent in chemistry, physics, molecular biology, or a related science, be proficient in English, and comply with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule.

What is the salary for this PhD position?

The salary for this position is 33,400 euros.

Where will the PhD student be enrolled?

The PhD student will be enrolled in the Umea University Doctoral School as a condition of recruitment.

Who should I contact for further information about the position?

For further information, you can contact Matteo Levantino at +33 (0)4 76 88 45 45 or [email protected].