PhD Student or Postdoctoral Researcher in Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry and Ion Spectroscopy for Chirality Measurements (CHIRAMASS) University of Geneva in Switzerland

The University of Geneva is offering a funded research position within the ERC Advanced Grant project CHIRAMASS, focused on developing new analytical approaches for chirality measurements by coupling ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS) with gas-phase ion spectroscopy. The post is based in the Biophysical and Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Laboratory in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and is supervised by Prof. Valérie Gabelica.

This opportunity is available at either PhD or postdoctoral level, depending on the candidate’s profile. The project aims to create innovative instrumentation and methodologies to probe the structure and chirality of molecular ions with exceptional sensitivity and specificity. Research will involve the development and implementation of systems that combine ion mobility spectrometry, mass spectrometry, laser-based spectroscopy, and advanced ion manipulation methods.

The work is highly interdisciplinary, sitting at the interface of chemistry, physics, and engineering. It is especially relevant to analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical physics, and instrumentation-focused research. Applications include structural characterization, chirality analysis, and fundamental studies of gas-phase ions with relevance to chemistry, biology, and pharmaceutical sciences.

Applicants for the PhD route should hold a Master’s degree or equivalent before the start date; postdoctoral applicants should hold a PhD degree. An excellent academic record is required. Helpful experience includes mass spectrometry instrumentation, ion optics, simulations, vacuum systems, optics and lasers, instrument control programming, electronics, signal processing, numerical modelling, software development, prototype development, and gas-phase ion chemistry/spectroscopy. Strong English communication skills are required.

The position is full-time and temporary, with salary and employment conditions following University of Geneva regulations and depending on the candidate’s qualification level. The project is funded by Horizon Europe - ERC under reference 101265130. Applications are due 15 November 2026 at 12:00 (Europe/Brussels), and the position will remain open until filled. Review begins after the deadline.

Applications must be submitted by email to [email protected] using the required form and all requested documents. Incomplete applications, incorrect formatting, or failure to clearly identify the selected project will result in rejection. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an online interview and, where feasible, a final on-site interview.