Research IT Staff Scientist - Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Basel is internationally recognized for excellence in research across the chemical sciences. To support our research groups at the interface of chemistry and information technology, we are seeking a motivated individual to join and expand our Research IT team as a Chemistry-focused Research IT Staff Scientist.

• Enabling research projects by developing and deploying IT solutions tailored to chemical research workflows.
• Advising and supporting researchers on research data management, analytical pipelines, and digital tools.
• Liaison between the Department of Chemistry, Research IT, and central university IT services.
• Contributing to the design, implementation, and maintenance of research IT infrastructure (e.g., software platforms, databases, laboratory automation, and computer-aided instrument control).
• Translating chemical research questions into IT-supported processes and computational solutions.
• Proactively training postgraduate students and researchers in modern computational and data-driven approaches to chemistry.
• Evaluating and integrating emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML tools, cloud computing, large language models) to keep the department at the forefront of research innovation.
• Developing and maintaining documentation, best practices, and standard operating procedures for research IT services.
• Devising practical, creative solutions to unique, interdisciplinary challenges that arise in a research-intensive environment. In other words, the job will have new challenges every day.

• PhD in chemistry or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated interest, experience, and competence in research IT and digital technologies.
• Solid understanding of the interplay between chemical research and IT systems.
• Proficiency in Python (or a comparable scripting language) for data analysis, workflow automation, and process optimization.
• Working knowledge of Linux and Windows operating systems, including command-line environments.
• Excellent communication skills in English; German is a plus but not required.
• Proven track record of effective teamwork and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.

Desirable Skills and Experience (any of these skills help your application, but are not essential)

• Research Data Management: Experience with large-scale data curation, FAIR data principles, and electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).
• Laboratory Automation: Familiarity with automated synthesis platforms, robotic liquid handlers, or programmatic control of laboratory instrumentation.
• Data Science & Machine Learning: Experience in deploying machine learning models and data science workflows in a research context (e.g., cheminformatics, predictive modelling).
• Design of Experiments (DoE): Knowledge of statistical experimental design and optimization methodologies.
• Computational Chemistry: Experience with molecular modelling methods such as Density Functional Theory (DFT), Molecular Mechanics (MM), or molecular dynamics simulations.
• Teaching & Educational Support: Ability to contribute to the digitalization of laboratory courses and the development of computer-aided teaching materials.

• A collaborative, international research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
• Flexible employment at 80-100%.
• Attractive working conditions and support for a healthy work-life balance.
• Opportunities for continuous professional and personal development, including conference attendance and advanced training.
• A permanent position with salary and benefits according to the University of Basel regulations.