Beamline Scientist for NANOSCOPIUM

Beamline Scientist for NANOSCOPIUM

SOLEIL Synchrotron

Saint-Aubin, France

Context and missions

As a member of the beamline team, the successful candidate will have the following responsibilities:

• Maintain and further develop the experimental stations (optics and end-stations).
• Provide scientific and technical support to external users for the successful execution of their experiments.
• Pursue an independent research program.

In particular, the candidate will lead the development of a new scanning nano-imaging end-station dedicated to cryo-preserved samples, ensuring high positioning accuracy and excellent vibrational and thermal stability, enabling 2D and/or 3D imaging at high resolution (≤ 50 nm) using XRF and/or phase[1]contrast imaging.

Additionally, he.she will be:

• engaged in all aspects (scientific, technical, and methodological) of the beamline’s activities.
• encouraged to participate in SOLEIL’s Biology & Health scientific section.
• encouraged to explore microfluidic integration into the new end-station under ambient conditions.
• encouraged to develop collaborations and attract of new user communities.
• encouraged to contribute to automation of experimental workflows.

Profile

Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent degree) and have proven expertise in cryo-sample preparation and in the instrumental and methodological development of scanning X-ray nano-imaging.

As part of the SOLEIL II upgrade program, the candidate is expected to be highly motivated to contribute to the beamline’s upgrade and future developments.

Additional expertise in one or more of the following areas will be considered a strong asset:

• Synchrotron instrumentation and beamline operation.
• Development and application of microfluidic methods.
• Complementary preparation, imaging, and analysis techniques tailored to biological samples.
• Knowledge and experience of radiation effects on biological samples.
• Basic skills in instrumentation such as robotics, automation, or related technologies.

Responsibilities of the successful candidate include:

• Sustaining the beamline’s strong scientific attractiveness by promoting existing capabilities and advancing scanning nano-imaging techniques for cryo-preserved samples through novel instrumental/theoretical developments or innovative research applications.
• Developing an independent scientific research program, either autonomously or in collaboration.
• Engaging with the national and international communities, particularly in the field of cellular biology.

Additional Requirements

• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory. Proficiency in French is desirable and will be considered an asset.
• The position requires both autonomy and the ability to work effectively as part of the beamline team.
• The position is based on the NANOSCOPIUM beamline, under the responsibility of the beamline manager.