PhD Opportunities in Structural Biology, Biophysics, Microbiology and Biotechnology at Institut de Biologie Structurale (Autumn 2026) Institut de Biologie Structurale in France

PhD opportunities are still open at the Institut de Biologie Structurale (IBS) in Grenoble, France, for Autumn 2026. The institute highlights an international research environment and invites applicants interested in key questions in human health and biotechnology.

The available thesis topics span structural biology, biophysics, microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, and related areas. The post mentions projects on structural snapshots of kinase active sites, antifungal inhibitor discovery against Candida auris, vitamin B12-dependent photoreceptors, molecular dynamics in SARS-CoV-2 replication machinery, exotic microbial metabolisms, enzymatic chemistry in microbial carbon cycling, and antimicrobial peptide interactions with bacterial targets.

Funding may come from several routes, including CEA doctoral training, national doctoral schools at Université Grenoble Alpes, external grants such as ANR, EU2020, ERC, private foundations, and specific project funding such as France2030. Some projects are already filled, and some funding streams are not available for all years, so applicants should check the project-specific status carefully.

Eligibility depends on the project, but one highlighted opportunity seeks candidates with either an engineering degree or a Master’s in Physics with microbiology skills, or a Master’s in Biology/Microbiology with biophysics expertise. Strong scientific English and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment are emphasized, along with autonomy, rigor, initiative, and communication skills. Experience with microscopy, biophysics, SANS, or biomolecular engineering is considered an asset.

To apply, candidates should contact the relevant supervisor directly and discuss the project. For the PAMELA doctoral project, applicants must send a CV, cover letter, and two references to Claire Durmort by 2026-05-18. The post also points applicants to the IBS thesis topics page for more details.