Research IT Staff Scientist – Chemistry

Job Description

Organization: University of Basel – Department of Chemistry

Location: Basel, Switzerland

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Basel is seeking a Research IT Staff Scientist to support interdisciplinary research at the interface of chemistry and information technology. This role focuses on enabling research workflows through the development and deployment of digital tools, computational solutions, and research IT infrastructure tailored to chemical research.

The successful candidate will work closely with research groups, central IT services, and the departmental Research IT team to implement advanced digital solutions, data management systems, and automation tools that support cutting-edge chemical research.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy IT solutions tailored to chemical research workflows.
• Advise researchers on research data management, analytical pipelines, and digital tools.
• Act as liaison between the Department of Chemistry, Research IT, and central university IT services.
• Design, implement, and maintain research IT infrastructure such as databases, software platforms, laboratory automation tools, and instrument control systems.
• Translate chemical research problems into IT-supported computational solutions.
• Train postgraduate students and researchers in computational and data-driven chemistry approaches.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies such as AI/ML tools, cloud computing, and large language models.
• Develop documentation, best practices, and standard operating procedures for research IT services.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or a closely related field.
• Experience or demonstrated interest in research IT and digital technologies.
• Strong understanding of the interaction between chemical research and IT systems.
• Proficiency in Python or a comparable scripting language.
• Working knowledge of Linux and Windows operating systems, including command-line environments.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Strong teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with research data management and FAIR data principles.
• Knowledge of laboratory automation and robotic instrumentation.
• Experience with data science and machine learning workflows in chemistry.
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE) methodologies.
• Experience in computational chemistry methods such as DFT, molecular mechanics, or molecular dynamics.
• Experience supporting digital teaching tools or computer-aided laboratory education.

Employment Details

• Permanent position with flexible employment level (80–100%).
• Earliest starting date: 1 August 2026.
• Salary and benefits according to University of Basel regulations.
• International research environment with access to advanced facilities and professional development opportunities.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit an online application including:

• Cover letter describing motivation and suitability.
• Detailed CV.
• Copies of diplomas or relevant certificates.
• Contact details of at least one referee.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.