The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of matter and materials, energy and environment and human health. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether PSI employs 2100 people.



Connecting the shots – using time-resolved crystallographic data to guide molecular dynamic simulations.



The Laboratory of Biomolecular Research (LBR) (www.psi.ch/lbr/) at PSI consists of four groups conducting basic research on membrane proteins, macromolecular assemblies of the cell, and new methods for bio-structural analysis. With our close contact to the Swiss Light Source (SLS) synchrotron and the Swiss Free Electron Laser (SwissFEL) – both located at PSI– and its excellent own infrastructure, LBR is an attractive environment for the structure/function analysis of complex biological systems.



For the Serial Crystallography Group we are looking for a

Postdoctoral Fellow

Your tasks

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join the group of Dr Jörg Standfuss (www.psi.ch/lbr/standfuss-joerg), dedicated to time-resolved crystallography at synchrotrons and X-Ray lasers. Your main task will consist in developing computational methods for connecting experimental data from time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography using molecular dynamics techniques. The resulting ‘molecular movies’ of activation will help us to understand protein function at high spatial and temporal resolution. Structural snapshots for several membrane protein targets are already available and more will be collected at SwissFEL in the course of the project. The project will be done in close collaboration with Dr Xavier Deupi (www.psi.ch/lbr/deupi-xavier), an expert in the study of G protein-coupled receptors using computational methods.

Your profile

• PhD in science (e.g. chemistry, biology, physics)


• Strong expertise in computational analysis of macromolecular structural data


• Experience in X-Ray crystallographic data collection and structure determination techniques


• Experience in biochemistry and crystallization of membrane proteins would be a plus


• An outstanding track record documenting relevant experience in the aforementioned areas


• Willingness to apply for personal fellowships


• Accustomed and willing to work in an interdisciplinary team

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.



Your employment contract is limited to two years.



For further information please contact Dr Jörg Standfuss, phone +41 56 310 25 86.



Please submit your application online (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (index no. 2316-00).



Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Jeanine Gehrig, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland