PICFO is a research center located in the Mediterranean Technology Park in the metropolitan area of Barcelona, employing approximately 500 people, including researchers, PhD students, and operational staff. In its field of specialization, ICFO is consistently ranked among the highest-quality research institutions worldwide. /ppbr/ppWe are seeking a highly motivated researcher to develop next-generation neuronal actuators based on light-gated ion channels. The ideal candidate will have experience in protein engineering, preferably involving membrane proteins and channelrhodopsins. The project will combine in silico mutagenesis with structure-guided design to identify key residues that enhance light sensitivity and photocurrent amplitude, inspired by naturally occurring photoreceptors in photosynthetic organisms. Engineered variants will be functionally characterized using in vitro reconstitution and automated patch-clamp electrophysiology. /ppbr/ppThe goal of this position is to engineer novel light-gated actuator with unprecedented photon-sensitivity for use in non-invasive, translational neurotherapies. /ppbr/ppThe position offers strong opportunities for scientific leadership and career development. The position is placed at the interface between the bProf. Dr. Michael Krieg /b and bProf. Dr. Nicoletta Liguori /b labs at ICFO and the candidate will collaborate with the two teams and thus benefit from a cutting-edge interdisciplinary environment. The candidate will be mentored by the PI and collaborators with the goal of developing the skills required to become an independent researcher. /ppbr/ppbKey Responsibilities /b /ppbr/ppThe successful candidate will lead a team of bioengineers, protein biochemists, and ultrafast spectroscopists to develop, deploy, and elucidate the mechanisms of novel light-gated ion channels. Working closely with team members and collaborators specializing in rational protein engineering, protein reconstitution, ultrafast spectroscopy, and C. elegans neurobiology, the candidate will: /ppbr/pulliEngineer new channelrhodopsin variants incorporating secondary light-absorbing groups. /liliDesign and execute in vitro reconstitution experiments with purified proteins and targeted mutants. /liliPerform electrophysiological measurements using automated patch-clamp systems to characterize photocurrents of engineered channels in heterologous expression systems. /liliCollaborate with cell biologists and electrophysiologists to translate in vitro findings to heterologous cells and C. elegans neurons. /li /ulpbr/ppThe candidate is expected to communicate results in group meetings, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications, and to provide regular updates to the PI and collaborating partners. A proven track record of effective teamwork is essential. /ppbr/ppbRequired Qualifications /b /ppbr/ppA PhD (or equivalent doctoral degree) in a relevant field, such as: Biophysics, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Physics (with strong focus on biological systems) or related interdisciplinary fields /ppbr/ppbRequired Experience /b /ppbr/ppAll applicants with track record in membrane protein engineering, optogenetics/electrophysiology, or photoreceptor biophysics are encouraged to apply. /ppbr/ppThe ideal candidate will have a strong background in protein engineering, especially structure-guided protein design, ion channel biophysics, and have expertise in molecular cloning and mutagenesis and recombinant protein expression. Experience with channelrhodopsins, or photoreceptor proteins is highly desirable, with electrophysiological characterization of ion channels in heterologous systems considered positively. /ppbr/ppA proven experience in team work and leadership is required. /ppbr/ppbWhat We Offer /b /ppbr/pulliCompetitive salary according to the institutional salary scales. /liliContract for periods of 3 years renewable upon existence of funding or extension of tasks. /liliAdditionally, a family allowance is also available on request and after corresponding approval for people with family charges in the terms described in the corresponding policy. A family allowance may be granted to candidates with dependents, upon request and in accordance with ICFO’s policies. /li /ulpbr/ppICFO is an equal opportunity employer. We hire based solely on merit and potential, regardless of gender, nationality, or disability. ICFO fully endorses the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, ensuring a transparent and supportive recruitment process. /ppbr/ppbApplication procedure /b /ppbr/ppRequired application materials (in English): /ppbr/pulliA presentation letter outlining your interest in the position. /liliA curriculum vitae, including full contact information. /liliThe contact e-mail addresses of two referees who can provide professional references. /li /ulpbr/ppThe application deadline is July 8, 2026. /ppbr/ppFor formal enquiries regarding the application process, please contact: /ppbr/ppFor project and technology enquiries, please contact: /p