ESRF - PhD Capturing mechanisms in two dioxygenases by time-resolved crystallography and spectroscopy

At a glance

Job title: PhD Capturing mechanisms in two dioxygenases by time-resolved crystallography and spectroscopy
Ref.: NS26-ESRF07
Contract type: Time-limited contract
Working time: Full-time job
Salary range: 33.4K euros
Expected deadline of applications: 31/03/2026
Publication start on Front Office : Site internet: 22/01/2026
Contract duration: 36 months

Context & Job description

Thesis subject: Capturing divergent catalytic mechanisms in two dioxygenases using time-resolved crystallography and spectrosocpy

Two structurally related metallo-enzymes accept the same substrate, but produce distinct products. These enzymes play important roles in glycopeptide antibiotics biosynthesis and are implicated in human metabolic diseases. Improving our understanding of their mechanisms, may lead to development of new pharmaceutical strategies.

Specifically, this project investigates how structural dynamics electronic states of the catalytic metal ion affect divergence in product formation. These intermediates are found in many biological processes, but remain difficult to study.

This project uses a combination of time-resolved serial crystallography and X-ray spectroscopies; X-ray emission- (XES) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). This research will make use of cutting-edge synchrotron techniques such as the new flagship beamline ID29 and ID26.

Further information may be obtained from: Jos KAMPS (jos.kamps@esrf.fr) and Pieter GLATZEL (pieter.glatzel@esrf.fr).

Expected profile

A strong background in structural biology and protein production is desirable.
Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment.

Degree allowing enrolment for a PhD (such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent) in chemistry, materials science, physics or a closely related science. However minimum degree level may vary between universities.
The candidate must have obtained and provide proof of a diploma at the time of application. The European Commission/MSCA may consider a student eligible provided that the university issues an official certificate confirming that the degree has been completed. The diploma will have to be provided at a later stage and is a mandatory requirement for enrolment in a doctoral school.
Proficiency in English (A proof of upper-intermediate B2 level must be included in the application. Applicants originating from native-English-speaking countries can apply without the need for proof of level. An official degree conducted in English will be also accepted as a proof). If the applicant is unable to provide proof, an English test (free of charge) will be requested.
Compliance with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule: candidates may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the host institute’s country for more than twelve months in the three years immediately before the application deadline (31/03/2026).
All researchers recruited must be doctoral candidates, i.e. not already working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.
Candidates must satisfy the conditions for enrolment in a doctoral programme.

Working conditions

You shall be enrolled at Université Grenoble Alpes as a condition of your recruitment.

Contract of two years, renewable for one year.

Do you recognize yourself in this description? Apply now for your next professional adventure!

What we offer:

Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries
Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges
Come and live in a vibrant city, in the heart of the Alps, and Europe's Green Capital 2022
Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life
Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for your relocation to Grenoble

For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to https://www.esrf.fr/home/Jobs/what-we-offer.html

The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.

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Company description

More details about the Nextstep Doctoral Programme on www.nextstep-programme.eu

NEXTSTEP will train 36 enthusiastic researchers to exploit the unique and transversal capabilities of analytical research infrastructures in tackling the challenges associated with sustainable development and industrial competitiveness in the areas of “Health”, “Digital, Industry & Space”, “Climate, Energy and Mobility” and “Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment”, which are at the heart of Horizon Europe. Host laboratories: ESRF and ILL (France), FZJ (Germany), AREA (Italy), NTNU (Norway).