Jobs in Structural Biology and Related Fields


Scientific Officer - Biophysical Characterisation


EMBL Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
Application deadline: 01 May 2020


The main goal of the Protein Expression and Purification Core Facility is to provide high-level support to the EMBL research community regarding a broad scope of experiments related to advanced protein expression, purification and biophysical characterisation.

Your role

As Scientific Officer – Biophysical Characterisation, you will support users of the EMBL research community in the design, execution and data analysis of biophysical and biochemical experiments aimed at the characterisation of proteins, multi-subunit protein and protein – nucleic acid complexes and the interactions between proteins and other types of molecules. Depending on the individual needs, the experiments will be either performed by yourself or the users will be trained to operate the equipment independently and perform their own experiments. The facility currently covers a broad range of biophysical techniques including calorimetry, circular dichroism, fluorescence and UV-VIS spectroscopy, microscale thermophoresis, nano-DSF, dynamic light scattering, SEC-MALS and surface plasmon resonance.

You will maintain state-of-the-art biophysical instrumentation, but also evaluate and introduce new technologies and instruments when necessary. You will also closely collaborate with the other staff members of the facility and assist them with protein quality control using biophysical techniques. Furthermore, you will be encouraged to take independent scientific initiatives as well. You will also build a network within and outside the institute to share and disseminate expertise, know-how and guidance in biophysical sample characterisation.

You have

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in life sciences and be able to demonstrate their expertise in the fields of biophysics and biochemistry. An in-depth understanding of the biophysical techniques used to characterise and quantify the physical properties of biomolecules is indispensable. Furthermore, hands-on experience with the relevant biophysical methods, assay development and data analysis is required. You should also be willing to expand their skill set when needed. Project management experience, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, teamwork and enthusiasm for working in an ambitious, multicultural, scientific environment are expected. Fluency in English is required.

You might also have

Experience with biophysical method development and mathematical modelling would be considered a plus.

For more information and to apply for this role, click here.

Heidelberg, Germany

Scientific Officer - Biophysical Characterisation