Immediate PhD position available to join the NICE2 team, Mediterranean Institute of Neurobiology (INMED), INSERM, Marseille, France.

The project, funded by INSERM (French National Institute for Heath and Medical Research) and by Aix-Marseille University, will focus on the study and the targeting of early neuroimmune events in an animal model of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of the developing brain. In human, congenital CMV represents one major cause of neurodevelopmental disorders, including microcephaly, cerebral palsy, epileptic seizures, and intellectual disability.

We have previously shown in our rat model that the blockade of neuroimmune pathophysiological events at the cellular or molecular level, can improve the neurological outcome and other phenotypes that are seen postnatally. The goal of the project is now to get more insights into the neurodevelopmental mechanisms associated with CMV infection, to better understand the modes of action of the rescue strategies, and to design novel tools and methods to target neuroimmune events with improved accuracy and selectivity. Techniques involved will include (but might not be limited to) in utero injections in the embryonic brain, behavioural testing, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, tissue clearing (imaging of transparent tissue), time-lapse imaging, multicolor flow cytometry, molecular biology tools (e.g. siRNA, miR), etc.

We are looking for an autonomous and ambitious student with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary projects. The student will have to interact with immunologists, neurobiologists, and possibly biochemists and neuropaediatricians. Candidates must have completed their Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Background in neurobiology and/or neuroimmunology is required. Good level in English language is required. French language is a plus. The position is for three years and is available immediately; applications should be sent as soon as possible as the recruitment must be completed in the very next weeks in order to start before January 1st, 2018 at last. Net salary is €1431,64/month and includes French healthcare and sickness cover.

CV and letters of motivation and recommendation must be sent to: pierre.szepetowski@inserm.fr & sylvian.bauer@inserm.fr

 

Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED) - Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM)

Parc Scientifique de Luminy – BP 13 - 13273 MARSEILLE Cedex 09
Tel.: ++33 (0)4 91 82 81 03 - Fax : ++33 (0)4 91 82 81 05 - e-mail: communication.u901@inserm.fr
République française