The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is a key player in research, development and innovation in four main areas :
Drawing on its widely acknowledged expertise, and thanks to its 16000 technicians, engineers, researchers and staff, the CEA actively participates in collaborative projects with a large number of academic and industrial partners.
The CEA is established in ten centers spread throughout France
2026-42507
The CEA's Fundamental Research Division (DRF) employs more than 5,000 people on four sites and conducts research in the physical, chemical, biological and environmental sciences, using cutting-edge technologies and instruments
Based at the Grenoble site, the Department of Integrated Structural and Cellular Biology (DBSCI) at the IRIG (Grenoble Interdisciplinary Research Institute) is fully aligned with the DRF's scientific strategy.
The DBSCI department comprises two units:
The first area concerns infectious diseases and molecular medicine, and focuses on research in structural and functional microbiology and virology, host-pathogen interactions and immunity, transcriptional regulation and DNA repair.The second research area focuses on signalling and membrane transport; this area involves the development of methods for biochemistry, structural biology and the engineering of membrane proteins.
The third area aims to push the boundaries of biophysics and chemistry applications in structural biology by developing new methodological approaches.
Biology, biophysics and biochemistry
Fixed-term contract
Researcher in Structural Biology: Mechanisms of Iron-Sulfur Cluster Assembly H/F
Executive
24
A research position with an initial term of two years is available to work on the structural characterization of protein complexes involved in the assembly and transport of iron-sulfur clusters to a client protein responsible for the biosynthesis of a key metabolic cofactor. This position is based in the Metalloproteins Unit at the Grenoble Institute of Structural Biology (IBS/IRIG), with a desired start date of March 1, 2027.
The researcher fellow will carry out original research on the molecular mechanisms of an unusual iron-sulfur cluster assembly machinery that builds the cofactor directly within its client protein. Using a combination of structural biology, in vitro assays, and spectroscopic techniques, the candidate will capture and characterize the successive intermediates of this process. The work will rely mainly on single-particle cryo-electron microscopy and, where possible, X-ray crystallography, to resolve the molecular interactions involved and follow the stepwise assembly of the FeS cluster within the client protein. The long-term goal is to determine how generalizable this process is, in order to make better use of FeS enzymes in large-scale biotechnological applications.
The researcher researcher will establish protocols to produce protein samples suitable for structural and spectroscopic analyses. They will also perform cryo-EM grid preparation, data processing, structural model refinement, and analysis. When possible, they will also prepare crystals and collect diffraction data.
The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. and has a solid background in laboratory biochemistry, including protein expression and purification and a genuine interest in metalloproteins and enzymatic mechanisms. Experience working under anaerobic conditions is appreciated. Strong experience in structural biology, particularly in cryo-EM and/or X-ray crystallography, is an asset. Some affinity for computational tools, including an interest in basic programming for processing and analyzing structural data, will be greatly appreciated.
We seek a motivated and open-minded researcher with strong communication skills, who thrives in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team. Prior knowledge of the French research system is not required, but would be a valuable asset for greater autonomy in the role.
The successful candidate will join the Metalloproteins Unit at IBS and will work closely with Dr. Yvain Nicolet. The Metalloproteins Unit has a solid experience in the structural study of metalloproteins and has a set of 6 glove boxes to work “from gene to structure” in the absence of oxygen (https://www.ibs.fr/research/research-groups/metalloproteins-group/).
Before applying, we encourage candidates to contact yvain.nicolet@ibs.fr.
🤝 Why join us? ….
By joining the Grenoble Interdisciplinary Institute, you’ll be part of a dynamic and innovative research environment where you’ll have the opportunity to learn, grow and play a key role within a centre of excellence.
…AND THAT’S NOT ALL!
You may be interested in the benefits that come alongside your main role:
A cutting-edge research ecosystem dedicated to topics of significant societal importance.
Training to enhance your skills and boost your career.
A staff committee offering a wealth of social, cultural and sporting benefits.
Practical benefits: staff canteen/meal vouchers, 85% of transport costs covered, and much more.
An exceptional living environment in Grenoble, nestled in the mountains, offering a unique balance between city life and nature.
🚀 Want to be part of the adventure? Apply now and put your energy to work for research and innovation!
In line with the CEA’s commitments to the integration of people with disabilities, this role is open to everyone. The CEA offers adjustments and/or organisational arrangements to facilitate the inclusion of disabled workers
Grenoble
France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Isère (38)
Grenoble
Ph.D. in Biochemistry
01/03/2027
The CEA is the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission ("Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives"). It is a public body established in October 1945 by General de Gaulle. A leader in research, development and innovation, the CEA mission statement has two main objectives: To become the leading technological research organization in Europe and to ensure that the nuclear deterrent remains effective in the future.
The CEA is active in four main areas: low-carbon energies, defense and security, information technologies and health technologies. In each of these fields, the CEA maintains a cross-disciplinary culture of engineers and researchers, building on the synergies between fundamental and technological research.
The civilian programs of the CEA received 49% of their funding from the French government, and 30% from external sources (partner companies and the European Union).
The CEA had a budget of 4,3 billion euros.
The CEA is based in ten research centers in France, each specializing in specific fields. The laboratories are located in the Paris region, the Rhône-Alpes, the Rhône valley, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, Aquitaine, Central France and Burgundy. The CEA benefits from the strong regional identities of these laboratories and the partnerships forged with other research centers, local authorities and universities.
