Beamline scientist at ID09

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.

Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of the top research facilities worldwide. Its particle accelerator produces intense X-ray beams that are used by thousands of scientists each year for experiments in diverse fields such as biology, medicine, environmental sciences, cultural heritage, materials science, and physics.

Supported by 19 countries, the ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity. 

ID09 is a beamline dedicated to time-resolved X-ray studies in physics, chemistry and biology using state of the art instrumentation. Through short X-ray pulses we monitor the structural changes taking place at the atomic/molecular level in different kind of systems (solid-state materials, transition metal complexes, biomolecules in solution, etc.) after laser photoexcitation with X-ray diffraction and/or solution scattering.

Current research topics include the study of functionally relevant protein intramolecular motions, fast phenomena in solid-state materials, and the investigation of chemical reactions in solution.

As a Beamline Scientist, you will play a central role in the operation, scientific exploitation, and future development of the ID09 beamline. You will also actively contribute to the broader activities of the X-ray diffraction and scattering group at ESRF.

User support is at the core of this position, placing you at the heart of international collaborations and at the forefront of time-resolved X-ray science. You will work closely with visiting researchers, enabling breakthrough experiments and fostering strong scientific partnerships.

Dedicated beamtime will be allocated to support your in-house research, giving you the opportunity to develop your own research programme in close collaboration with the beamline team.

In addition, you will be co-responsible for the continuous technical upgrading and strategic development of the instrument, ensuring that ID09 remains at the highest level of performance and continues to meet the expectations of its demanding user community.

Further information about the job can be obtained from Matteo Levantino ([email protected]).

Recent publications:

- Rios-Santacruz et al., Integrated structural dynamics uncover a new B12 photoreceptor activation mode, Nature (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-10074-2

- De Bei et al., Time-resolved X-ray solution scattering unveils the events leading to hemoglobin heme capture by staphylococcal IsdB. Nature Communications (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54949-w

- Amano et al., Propagation of insulator-to-metal transition driven by photoinduced strain waves in a Mott material. Nature Physics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-024-02628-4

- Pepin et al., Metastable water at several compression rates and its freezing kinetics into ice VII, Nature Communication (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-52576-z 

Technical skills

- PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Biophysics or a related field

- Expertise in instrumentation and data analysis

- Proficiency in the use of ultrafast lasers

- Hands-on experience with time-resolved X-ray diffraction or solution scattering experiments

- Proven track record of significant research achievements, demonstrated through high-quality publications with significant contributions from the candidate

Soft skills

- Strong autonomy and ability to independently initiate, develop and drive research projects

- Demonstrated leadership in taking ownership of research projects

- Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and international environments

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with colleagues and users from different countries and scientific backgrounds

- Ability to collaborate effectively with researchers from diverse scientific disciplines

5-year temporary contract.

The salary will be calculated on the basis of relevant qualifications and professional experience.

Looking for your next professional adventure? Apply today!

What makes the ESRF experience unique...

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 "What we offer" section of our Careers page https://www.esrf.fr/Jobs The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.