Postdoctoral researcher (M/F) in high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled to lasers and direct infusion for the characterization of fossil organic matter

Job Description

Missions

Project context: The main objective for the successful candidate will be to develop the application of laser desorption-ionization mass spectrometry on fossil organic matter and reference biomolecules and biopolymers. This research will be carried in the framework of the research project entitled High-resolution mass spectrometry assisted by two-stage laser desorption-ionization (µL2-HRMS), part of the PEPR Origins program (Priority program and equipment research to understand our origins: from the formation of planets to life). This project aims at further developing laser desorption-ionization as a tool to document the composition and decipher the origin of organic matter in various fossils and meteorite/asteroid samples.

Duration: The successful candidate will be appointed for 12 months in the first instance, with the expectation of renewal for up to 22 additional months, contingent upon satisfactory performance; the overall duration may vary depending on the agreed starting date.

Activity

The primary job duties of the successful candidate will include:
- Design and implementation of sample analysis protocols.
- Optimization of laser parameters (wavelength, power, pulse rate,…), and of ion source parameters for mass spectrometric analyses.
- Participation in developing new post-ionization instrumentation (including VUV).
- Carrying analyses of insoluble (solid, macromolecular) and soluble organic matter in laser desorption-ionization, as well as soluble organic matter in direct infusion of liquid. The soluble (solvent-extracted) and insoluble (macromolecular) fossil organic matter is extracted (by the LOG technicians) from ancient rocks (a few hundred million to ~3 billion years old).
- Data analysis of all type of “full scan” mass spectra with petroleomics approachs.
- Performing MSn using CID/HCD/UVPD (if it is possible to isolate a dominant isobaric species).
- Writing of scientific articles and presentations at conferences
- Bringing analytical support to other members of the PEPR project

Your Profil

Skills

- Expertise in organic chemical characterization of complex samples (geological or other)
- Knowledge and experience in mass spectrometry. Applicants with experience in spectroscopy applied to organic geological samples, with knowledge in mass spectrometry will also be considered.
- Knowledge and/or experience is also desired, but not mandatory, in one or more of these fields: organic geochemistry, cosmochemistry of organic molecule, “omics” (petrole-, lipid-, metabol-, volatol-, …), general analytical chemistry, lasers and optics, biochemistry, paleontology.
- Development and optimization of experimental protocols.
- Proficiency in data analysis.
- Critical data interpretation using relevant literature.
- Writing of scientific articles.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to co-supervise graduate (Master/PhD) students.
- Use of English for scientific writing and oral communication
- A PhD degree in analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, physics, geochemistry (organic), or other fields related to the project is required at the time of appointment.

Your Work Environment

Host laboratories include 1) Laboratory of Oceanology and Geosciences (Laboratoire d'Océanologie et de Géosciences, LOG), with a focus on organic geochemistry and 2) the Laboratory for Physics of Lasers, Atoms and Molecules (Laboratoire de Physique des Lasers, Atomes et Molécules: PhLAM), with a focus on analytical developments in laser-assisted mass spectrometry. Collaboration within the PEPR project is made with the IPAG (Institute for Planetary sciences and Astrophysics, Grenoble) and the IRAP (Research Institute in Astrophysics and Planetology, Toulouse) for analysis of meteorite/asteroid materials, developments, and data analysis.

Analytical environment: OrbitrapTM Eclipse 1 million resolution with UVPD, ESI/APPI/APCI sources (used in direct infusion), to be coupled (as part of the µL2-uHR-MS project) with a two-step laser-desorption ionization source; orthogonal-time-of-flight mass spectrometer coupled to two-step laser-desorption ionization (HR-L2MS). TIMS-ToF-FLeX also available at the CERLA laser platform, ToF-SIMS and LDI-FT-ICR-MS on the campus in Chevreul Institute (chemistry).

This position falls within a sector subject to the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST). In accordance with regulations, your appointment must therefore be authorized by the relevant authority of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR).

Constraints and risks

The recruited person will use organic solvents to extract soluble molecules, prepare samples and/or analyze them in the mass spectrometer(s). Laser sources will be used for laser-desorption-ionization mass spectrometry.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

between ~3000€ gross (~2450€ net) and ~4200€ gross (~3400€ net) per month (commensurate with experience).

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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