Postdoctoral Researcher in Structural Mass Spectrometry for High-Resolution Epitope Mapping of Therapeutic Antibodies (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for developing, optimizing, and implementing an integrated approach for high-resolution epitope mapping, based on structural mass spectrometry approaches, including HDX-MS and XL-MS, to characterize antigen–antibody interfaces. They will contribute to the analysis and integration of the data generated, as well as to the scientific dissemination of the results of the EPIMAP project.

Activity

- Develop and optimize HDX-MS and XL-MS experimental protocols.
- Perform epitope mapping experiments on model systems and subsequently on antigen–antibody complexes developed within the project.
- Perform HDX-MS experiments, including bottom-up and top-down approaches, and operate the dedicated automated sample preparation system.
- Perform covalent cross-linking experiments (XL-MS) and analyze the cross-linked products by mass spectrometry.
- Process, analyze, and interpret data generated using the different approaches.
- Integrate the data obtained to characterize antigen–antibody interfaces and contribute to the validation of the results.
- Assess the performance and limitations of the different approaches and propose methodological improvements.
- Participate in scientific exchanges with the industrial partner Agro-Bio.
- Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications, reports, and communications.
- Present results at project meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences.

Your Profil

Skills

# Education and experience
- PhD in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, or a related field.
- Experience in mass spectrometry applied to the study of biomolecules, particularly proteins.
- Experience in structural mass spectrometry, particularly HDX-MS and/or XL-MS, would be highly desirable.

# Scientific and technical skills
- Strong knowledge of mass spectrometry and protein analysis.
- Knowledge of protein biochemistry and structural biology.
- Knowledge of protein–protein interactions and approaches for characterizing biomolecular complexes.
- Practical experience in structural mass spectrometry, particularly HDX-MS and/or XL-MS.
- Experience in the analysis of antibodies or antigen–antibody complexes would be an asset.

# Technical skills
- Ability to design, optimize, and implement experimental protocols.
- Ability to process and interpret complex datasets.
- Ability to identify the limitations of an analytical approach and propose alternative strategies.
- Ability to ensure the traceability and management of scientific data.
- Ability to write and present scientific results.

# Software and tools
- Proficiency in standard computer tools.
- Experience with software for processing and analyzing mass spectrometry data.
- Knowledge of software dedicated to HDX-MS and/or XL-MS would be an asset.

# Personal skills
- Autonomy, rigor, and initiative.
- Scientific curiosity and an interest in methodological development.
- Ability to solve experimental problems and adapt to new approaches.
- Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment.
- Good scientific communication skills in English.
- Ability to interact with academic and industrial partners.

Your Work Environment

The postdoctoral researcher will be recruited at the Center for Molecular Biophysics (CBM, CNRS, Orléans, France), as part of the EPIMAP project ( in collaboration with Agro-Bio) which aims to develop an integrated high-resolution epitope mapping methodology to characterize antigen–antibody interfaces involved in the development of therapeutic antibodies.

The CBM is a CNRS research institute comprising approximately 160 staff members. CBM develops interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry, biology, and physics, with a focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of life and the dysfunctions leading to disease development.
The postdoctoral researcher will join the MO²VING platform and will be under the direct supervision of the platform manager. The successful candidate will interact closely with platform staff, research teams within the laboratory, and external collaborators.
Employment Conditions and Benefits
- Full-time position: 38.5 hours per week.
- 44 days of annual leave per year.
- On-site subsidized staff restaurant.
- Employer contribution of 75% toward public transportation subscriptions.
- Sustainable mobility allowance
- Sports and recreational activities organized by the local social action committee.
- Campus childcare and leisure facilities.
- Additional CNRS employee benefits.

Constraints and risks

- Experimental work in structural biology and mass spectrometry laboratories.
- Handling of chemical reagents and biological samples in compliance with laboratory safety procedures.
- Use of high-technology scientific instrumentation requiring specific training.
- Occasional travel in France or abroad for project meetings, training, or scientific conferences.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

from 3 041 € gross monthly regarding on 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

The research professions