Postdoctoral researcher associate
Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A. · Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia ·
Postdoctoral researcher associate for CryoEM facility performing biochemical and biophysical assays to assess sample stability, folding and oligomerization state, as well as to investigate protein–ligand interaction properties; performing protein crystallization and crystal optimization using the robotic facility available in the Structural Biology Laboratory; providing samples and scientific input to support the installation and operation of a new “prep room” for cryo‑EM sample vitrification; performing cryo-EM grid preparation; becoming acquainted with data‑collection workflows for macromolecular crystallography and cryo‑EM, in close collaboration with beamline and facility scientists; investigating and applying alternative biophysical/structural techniques to characterize proteins and protein complexes and to support project progress.
The successful candidate will report to the SB Lab manager and will work in close contact with other scientists of the Structural Biology group at Elettra, with staff from other CERIC‑ERIC Partner Facilities when relevant, and with other laboratories of Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste.
He/She will be expected to work autonomously, present results at project meetings and workshops and at international conferences, and to prepare and submit articles to peer‑reviewed scientific journals. Qualifications The following requirements are mandatory: A Ph.D. in biochemistry, chemistry, biology, biophysics, structural biology or related disciplines, obtained no more than 6 years prior to the application deadline, with postdoctoral experience in academic institutions or private companies.
Well‑established experience in molecular biotechnology and protein production, including recombinant protein expression in bacteria and eukaryotic cells (insect and/or mammalian), and in protein purification; Proven experience in protein biophysical characterization techniques, such as stability assays and binding methods; Hands‑on experience with structural biology sample preparation methods, including macromolecular crystallization and/or cryo‑EM grid preparation.
Any of the following will be considered as an additional asset: expertise in structural biology MX and/or cryo-EM data collection, processing and structural analysis; expertise in protein engineering and/or protein chemistry.
Good time management skills and ability to prioritize are expected, together with the ability to interact with the facility staff and international users at all levels, and to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Good oral and written communication skills in English are essential.
The envisioned appointment is a fixed term contract with an initial duration of 12 months governed by the National Metalworker Collective Labour Agreement (C.C.N.L.) and by the Company Labour Agreements (agreements available on section “amministrazione trasparente”).
A trial period of 30 effective working days is foreseen. The employment grade is Level B1 of the National Metalworker Collective Labour Agreement (C.C.N.L.), with a gross annual salary ranging from € 30.814,29 to € 32.500,00 depending on previous experience and qualifications of the candidate Applications must include a full curriculum vitae with a complete list of the candidate’s publications and any relevant information for the position together with the names and contact information (including electronic mail) of at least one person who have agreed to provide references.
A motivation letter is desirable. The ranking of suitable candidates resulting from this selection process may be used within the following 24 months. The interviews may be held via video conferencing. Employees or former employees of Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., as well as current or former personnel provided by temporary work agencies will be excluded from the present selection procedure.
Employees or former employees of any Italian Public Entity who have exercised authority over Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A. or have negotiated with Elettra - Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A. within the last three years will also be excluded from the present selection procedure, in accordance with the provisions of article 21 of the Italian legislative decree no.
39/2013 and in conjunction with article 53 (subsection 16ter) of Italian legislative decree no. 165/2001. The publication of this call does not commit Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A. to implement the procedure announced.
Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A. reserves the right to suspend/postpone/cancel this selection procedure or to launch a new call at its sole discretion, without the candidate being entitled to rise any claim. In accordance with current applicable legislation, the selection procedure and any subsequent recruitment will be conducted in line with the principles of equal opportunities and non-discrimination.
Candidates will not be required to disclose information regarding their current or previous remuneration, in compliance with the provisions of Legislative Decree 96/2026. The deadline for the submission of the application is September 6, 2026. We thank all applicants in advance.