Postdoctoral research fellowship – Neutron plus X-ray Tomography of plants and bio-structures

This position is a 3-year full-time postdoctoral research fellowship focused on high-resolution neutron and X-ray imaging of biomaterials, based at the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) in Grenoble. The project aims to advance the use of the Neutron and X-ray Tomograph (NeXT) instrument to explore the microstructure of biological materials using state-of-the-art tomographic techniques.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Alessandro Tengattini, co-responsible for the NeXT and MoTo neutron imaging instruments, to develop innovative imaging approaches at the forefront of neutron and X-ray tomography. The research will investigate the unique capabilities of neutron imaging—particularly its sensitivity to hydrogen and low impact on biological samples—for studying plants, bones, cartilage, biomaterials, and contaminants such as cadmium and microplastics. The project also exploits the strong complementarity between neutrons and X-rays, including simultaneous imaging, to gain unique insights into internal structure, composition, density variations, and operando processes.

This fellowship is part of the EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND programme AMBER (Advanced Multiscale Biological Imaging using European Research Infrastructures), coordinated by the LINXS Institute of Advanced Neutron and X-ray Science. AMBER addresses key gaps in biological imaging across scales, from molecules to organisms. Around 15 postdoctoral researchers will be recruited in the 2026 call, each for a 36-month contract, with interviews starting in April–May 2026.

Candidate profile

Applicants must hold a PhD in structural or molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or a closely related field (or have successfully defended their thesis), with a strong background in relevant imaging or analytical methods. Excellent programming skills are desirable. Eligibility is limited to researchers with no more than 8 years post-PhD experience, who meet the MSCA mobility rule (no more than 12 months spent in France during the previous 3 years). Candidates must have at least one peer-reviewed publication, strong English proficiency, and the ability to conduct independent and collaborative research.

Application

Applications must be submitted in English via the AMBER portal and include a Europass CV, a detailed research plan (3–5 pages recommended, max. 10), reference letters, proof of English proficiency, a draft Individual Career Development Plan, and required ethical documentation. Candidates may apply to up to three AMBER positions, with a complete application for each.

The AMBER programme provides exceptional access to leading European research infrastructures and offers strong career prospects in academia, large-scale facilities, and the health and MedTech sectors, with opportunities to develop cutting-edge imaging techniques with high societal impact.

Link to apply : www.ill-recruits.eu/generator.php?id=2127