PhD in Chemistry and NMR Spectroscopy of Disordered Proteins
Explore the structural roles of proline residues in intrinsically disordered proteins using advanced fluorine-labeled NMR techniques.
Best for:Best for biochemistry or structural biology PhD candidates with expertise in NMR spectroscopy, peptide synthesis, and computational modeling, interested in protein dynamics and viral mechanisms.
Overview
This PhD position at the CNRS’s Integrative Structural Biology group focuses on elucidating the conformational dynamics of proline residues in intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) through innovative NMR spectroscopy. The project combines synthetic chemistry, computational modeling, and high-resolution NMR (including 19F NMR) to study peptide models and a disordered region of the hepatitis C virus protein NS5A. The work integrates fundamental biophysics with potential therapeutic implications, leveraging cutting-edge NMR infrastructure and collaborations with international research teams. Applicants should have a strong background in biochemistry, structural biology, or related fields and a passion for interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry and molecular biology.
What you'll do
- Develop and apply advanced NMR techniques (1H, 19F, 13C, 15N) to study conformational dynamics of proline residues in peptide models and disordered proteins.
- Synthesize fluorine-labeled proline variants for structural and dynamic characterization of peptides.
- Collaborate with international partners to integrate synthetic chemistry, computational modeling, and NMR data.
- Analyze and interpret high-resolution NMR spectra to elucidate structural motifs and conformational transitions in disordered proteins.
- Conduct experiments on the disordered region of the hepatitis C virus NS5A protein to understand its role in viral replication.
- Present research findings at national and international conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Maintain and operate high-field NMR spectrometers (up to 1.2 GHz) and related biophysical instrumentation.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Chemistry, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for scientific communication and collaboration
Instruction: French (work environment) and English (scientific literature and collaboration)
- Proven experience in NMR spectroscopy (preferably 1H, 13C, 15N, and 19F).
- Hands-on experience with peptide synthesis and biochemical assays.
- Familiarity with computational tools for structural modeling and data analysis.
- Strong background in biophysical chemistry or structural biology.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
- No nationality restrictions (CNRS open to international applicants).
- No age limit, but typically candidates under 30 years old are preferred for PhD positions in France.
- No prior experience cap, but research experience in NMR or related fields is strongly preferred.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-19
Applicants must submit a complete application package including a CV, a cover letter detailing their research interests and motivation, academic transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. The application should be sent via the CNRS employment portal. Additional documents may be requested during the evaluation process.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter explaining research interests and motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Two letters of recommendation
Contact
CNRS Employment Office· Recruitment Contact
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