Research Scientist - Macromolecular Crystallography (Postdoc) Institut Laue-Langevin in France

The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) in Grenoble, France, is a premier European research facility specializing in neutron science. The Large Scale Structures (LSS) group at ILL operates a suite of instruments for studying the structure of matter at nanometre scales, including small-angle scattering, reflectometry, and diffraction from single crystals. The scientific scope is broad, spanning polymer and colloid science, structural molecular biology, materials science, and magnetic phenomena.

This postdoctoral position focuses on Macromolecular Crystallography (MX) within the LSS group. The successful candidate will co-manage the LADI-III and DALI quasi-Laue diffractometers, which are dedicated to high-resolution crystallographic studies of biological macromolecules. These instruments provide critical insights into protonation states, hydrogen bonding, and hydration, which are essential for understanding biomacromolecular function, enzyme mechanisms, ligand binding, and drug design.

Key responsibilities include instrument management, technical development, user support for scientific experiments, and fostering scientific partnerships and collaborations. The role offers the opportunity to pursue an independent research programme while contributing to the scientific environment at ILL.

Applicants must hold a PhD in physics, biophysics, or chemistry, with experience in neutron macromolecular crystallography and structural biology highly preferred. Candidates should be motivated, possess sound English skills, and be willing to learn French (language courses provided). Medical fitness for work under ionising radiation is required. Both early-career postdoctoral scientists and experienced researchers (secondment possible) are encouraged to apply.

ILL offers a stable 5-year fixed-term contract in a multicultural scientific environment, generous social benefits including expatriation allowance, health cover, relocation assistance, productivity bonus, paid leave, and subsidies for transport, canteen, holidays, and cultural/sports activities. Language courses for candidates and partners are also provided.

Located in Grenoble, a vibrant research and technology hub in the French Alps, ILL emphasizes work-life balance and offers home working options under certain conditions. For further details on employment conditions, visit ILL Employment Conditions.

Applications should be submitted online via the ILL career portal, quoting reference number 26/15, with a list of publications and three referees (including one from your current workplace). The vacancy remains open until the ideal candidate is found. All applicants are subject to administrative screening and medical fitness checks. ILL is committed to equal opportunities and diversity.