Ph.D. student in biophysics of DNA-azobenzene complexes (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Time-resolved X-ray scattering and diffraction methods have revolutionized structural biology, enlightening the structural dynamics accompanying key biological functions. The PhD student will use static and time-resolved X-ray solution scattering to track the structural changes in Azobenzene-G-quadruplex DNA (AzO-G4) photoswitches, upon light excitation, thus revealing volume variations induced by the azobenzene photoisomerization and providing insights into the dynamics and structural hierarchy of AzO-G4 conformational changes.

Your Work Environment

Located on the Grenoble Science Park (ESRF/ILL/EMBL/IBS), the Institute of Structural Biology (IBS) is a national and international player in the field of integrated structural biology. The IBS is a research center, a technical platform, a host site and a scientific training center. Its mission is to develop research in structural biology, a field of research that is crucial to the understanding of fundamental biological mechanisms. It is supported by 12 state-of-the-art platforms.
As a joint research unit (CEA-CNRS-UGA), the IBS is composed of 20 research groups, each of which proposes a multi-disciplinary approach, at the frontiers of biology, physics and chemistry, in coherence with 3 research axes. Nearly 320 people work there as researchers, PhD students, engineers and technicians in a multicultural and international environment.
The person recruited will join the Dynamop group, which focuses on the study of the structural dynamics of biological macromolecules:
https://www.ibs.fr/en/research/assembly-dynamics-and-reactivity/dynamics-and-kinetics-of-molecular-processes-group-m-weik/?lang=en
Activities :
- Prepare AzO-G4 samples in solution
- Participate in time-resolved X-ray scattering experiments
- Analyze and interpret experimental data
- Model experimental data using molecular dynamics simulations
- Format results for reports and oral presentations in English
- Proactively suggest ways to refine and improve experiments
- Write protocols and research articles in English for publication of the work carried out
- Participate in the research group's collaborative activities
- Assist in supervising interns
- Participate in the Institute's scientific events
Skills :
- expertise in biophysics or the physics of soft matter
- basic knowledge of the biochemistry of biological molecules
- proficiency in tools for analyzing experimental data
- knowledge of a programming language (Python, C++, etc.)
- English (written/spoken) at the B2 level
- Ability to work independently
- Proactive approach to research, scientific curiosity
- Open-mindedness and active listening
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to integrate and adapt into a group

Constraints and risks

Possibilité to conduct experiments in X-ray facilities (including on-site visits) and to work outside normal hours (weekends and/or nights).
The research will be carried out in either French or English, however it is expected that the non-French speaking candidate will strive to learn the basics of French in order to facilitate communication and integration into the laboratory.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

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