Postdoctoral Researcher in Solid-state Nmr and Dnp - Zurich, Schweiz - ETH Zürich

ETH Zürich

Geprüftes Unternehmen

Zurich, Schweiz

vor 4 Wochen

Geschrieben von:

Lena Schneider

beBee Recruiter

Beschreibung

Postdoctoral Researcher in Solid-State NMR and DNP:

100%, Zurich, fixed-term:

Project background:

Solid-state NMR is an important analytical technique to characterize structure and dynamics of biomolecules and materials. So far, pulse sequences have been implemented mostly based on analytical calculations of the spin dynamics.

Based on recent theoretical developments in our group (publication 1, publication 2), we plan to use numerical optimization of effective Hamiltonians to generate new and more efficient pulse sequences in a way similar to the analytical approach used so far.

Applications are envisioned to include polarization transfer in solid-state NMR under MAS as well as pulse sequences for pulsed DNP.

Job description:

The work will focus on implementing numerical optimization strategies to design pulse sequences for high-resolution solid-state NMR under magic-angle spinning and static DNP in close collaboration with two PhD students working on these topics.

The efficiency of such pulse-sequence elements is key for improving the sensitivity of NMR experiments.

To obtain the best performance not only parameters of the spin systems but also experimental imperfections of the spectrometers have to be included in the modelling of the experiment.

Such an approach will require:

Extending and improving an existing framework for optimizing pulse sequences based on effective Hamiltonian calculations
Numerical simulation of generated sequences to check their performance under a large range of experimental conditions
Implementing these sequences on commercial NMR spectrometers and homebuilt DNP systems to check their experimental performance on model systems
Iterative improvements in the optimization tools to improve the performance of the generated sequences

The postodctoral research will be focused on the methodological development of the optimization procedures and the effective Hamiltonian calculations. One important consideration will be the optimization of the code to speed up the numerical optimization procedures. This requires a good understanding of NMR and EPR theory and spin physics. The position is initially for a one year duration, funding is currently available for two years.

Your profile:

We are looking for a highly-motivated researcher who is interested in working on the intersection between Chemistry and Physics in a small interdisciplinary team.

The position will require independence, perseverance, and the willingness to acquaint yourself with new topics and methods.

You should:

Hold a PhD in solidstate NMR, DNP, EPR or a related field
Have an excellent track record in reserach proven by publications in this field
Have a good understanding of NMR theory and computer simulations
Understand the basics of NMR and EPR hardware
Be able to optimize and maintain a homebuilt DNP system
Be willing to work closely with PhD students to support and guide them
Supervise research projects of undergraduate students
Implement sequences on homebuilt DNP hardware

We offer:

ETH offers an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of scientific research.

Collaborations with other research groups are possible and attendance of international conferences in the field of NMR spectroscopy are strongly encouraged.

We value diversity:

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture.

We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected.

Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we
:

Cover letter with a description of your research achievements and research interests
Detailed CV with publication list
Transcripts of all degrees (English)
Names and contact information of at least two references