We are looking for a talented and motivated scientist to join our team “Membrane Dynamics & Viruses” (MDV) led by Dr. Raphael Gaudin, part of the IRIM institute located on the CNRS campus of Montpellier, France. Our team has strong expertise in the neurobiology of viral infections (see for instance Ayala-Nunez et al, Nat Comm, 2019; Gaudin et al, Trends Mol Med 2021; Partiot et al, Nat Microbiol; Partiot, Gorda et al, EMBO Mol Med, 2024). We are now looking for a dynamic candidate to integrate our team, to lead an ambitious project on the analysis of viral infection of human cerebral organoids derived from stem cells and ex vivo brain explants using high-resolution microscopy and proteomic approaches. Specifically, our goal is to identify the proteome of single cells while retaining its spatial localization, allowing the precise mapping of viro-induced perturbations in physiologically relevant models. The project is closely linked to labs experts in AI-based image processing, statistics, and proteomics, to ensure that all expertise needed are synergizing to achieve our goals. Funding to hire a young researcher for 1.5 years is available, with possibility to extend it, in order to complete the project with most successful outcome.

Classical molecular and cell biology techniques, RT-qPCR, western blot, flow cytometry, virus production. Stem cell culture, differentiation and culture of neural cells and organoids, human tissue explant culture, sample preparation for microscopy imaging, microdissection.

The proposed project will take place in the beautiful coastal city of Montpellier, in the south of France. The IRIM institute is located on the CNRS campus, gathering vibrant research labs specialized in cell biology, genetics, infectiology, neurobiology, ecology, and chemistry. The campus hosts high-end microscopy, flow cytometry and biosafety level 2 and 3 facilities. The candidate will benefit from a very dynamic workplace and a stimulating international scientific and social environment.
Our international team is composed of 15 members from diverse origins, showing interdisciplinary skills and developing a wide range of advanced biological knowledge in cell biology, virology and neurobiology. All lab interactions are in English, and include weekly labmeeting, internal and external seminars, institute and lab retreats. The team benefits from a friendly and supportive atmosphere, with the aim to achieve our goals in a publication-oriented, efficient and thorough manner. Promoting individuals' careers through experimental and conceptual mentoring is also a collective endeavor.