Principal Research Scientist - Structural Biology - IRBM

Principal Research Scientist - Structural Biology - IRBM Pomezia, Italy Application deadline: 31 Aug 2026 We are seeking a talented, highly motivated Crystallographer with a strong passion for structural biology and structure-based drug discovery. The successful candidate will join a rapidly expanding Protein Production and NMR team and contribute to a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment focused on advancing drug discovery projects involving proteins, nucleic acids, peptides, and small-molecule ligands. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in macromolecular crystallography and a demonstrated track record of delivering high-quality scientific results. She/He should possess extensive training in structural biology, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and a creative, innovative approach to addressing complex scientific challenges. A commitment to continuous learning and scientific excellence is essential. The role requires hands-on expertise in protein crystallization, diffraction data collection, structure determination, and structural analysis. The successful applicant will work closely with scientists across multiple disciplines to generate high-impact structural insights that guide drug discovery and biomolecular research programs. Key responsibilities Lead and execute crystal structure determination projects using X-ray crystallography, electron diffraction, and complementary structural biology techniques Independently analyze, interpret, integrate and communicate experimental data and structural insights to internal project teams, external collaborators, and clients Design, develop, and optimize experimental strategies to address challenging crystallographic and structure determination problems Maintain accurate experimental records and contribute to laboratory operations, including reagent procurement, inventory management, and equipment oversight Provide scientific leadership and intellectual input to structure-based drug discovery programs, working closely with multidisciplinary teams spanning medicinal chemistry, biology, biophysics, computational chemistry, and related fields. Generate and apply structural insights to support target validation, hit identification, lead optimization, and candidate selection in multidisciplinary drug discovery projects. Contribute to the continuous improvement of crystallography workflows, methodologies, and data analysis pipelines Contribute to scientific publications, scientific reports, technical proposals, and business development activities as appropriate. Competencies/skills Extensive expertise in macromolecular crystallography, including X-ray diffraction, electron diffraction, and related structural biology techniques Strong proficiency with crystallographic software packages, data processing and structure determination tools, and relevant scripting or programming languages for data analysis and automation Demonstrated hands-on experience in protein crystallization, crystal optimization, high-throughput crystallography, synchrotron-based data collection and automated data collection workflows Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment, while effectively managing multiple projects and meeting timelines Experience mentoring and guiding junior scientists, with the ability to provide scientific and technical leadership when required Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving abilities Strong interpersonal skills with a highly collaborative and team-oriented mindset, coupled with outstanding written and verbal communication skills Fluency in spoken and written English is essential Qualifications Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Chemistry, or a related field, complemented by a minimum of five years of relevant postdoctoral and/or industry experience in macromolecular crystallography. Additional experience with cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) techniques and/or Protein Production will be considered as a plus. The position is based in Pomezia (RM). For more information and to apply, please see here.