RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher
RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: Biology - Neurosciences
MAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: Biology - Neurosciences
JOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION
A 3-year full-time doctoral position is available at the Institute of Neuropathophysiology (INP) (https://inp.univ-amu.fr), CNRS/Aix-Marseille Université. This position is funded by the Vaincre Alzheimer foundation, and the successful candidate is expected to start at the beginning of 2025.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents one of the most significant scientific and socio-economic challenges of the 21st century. Hallmarks of AD include aggregates of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau proteins, as well as neuroinflammation and gliosis, which collectively lead to synaptic and neuronal loss, forming the basis of cognitive decline. While the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in AD remain incompletely understood, recent evidence highlights the pivotal role of microglial reactivity, influenced significantly by TREM2 and associated inflammatory responses. Both Aβ and tau pathologies exacerbate microglial reactivity, aggravating disease progression and neurodegeneration. However, the specific roles of microglia in Aβ- or tau-induced neurotoxicity remain unclear.
This study aims to investigate the proteomic changes in microglia caused by Aβ and tau pathologies, a critical step toward identifying potential therapeutic targets for halting or slowing AD progression.
The selected candidate will engage in a cutting-edge research project that seeks to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying microglia-driven neurodegeneration in AD. Specifically, the project will involve identifying proteomic differences and similarities in microglial reactivity induced by Aβ and tau pathologies, leveraging microglia-specific metabolic labeling of the proteome in Aβ and tau mouse models. The research will encompass the use of genetically modified mice and a range of techniques, including proteomics, biochemical assays, molecular and cell biology methods, as well as histopathological analysis.
While not mandatory, prior knowledge or experience in the following areas will be highly valued: Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis, Proteomics, Biochemical and molecular biology techniques, Cell culture, Confocal or super-resolution microscopy, Behavioral experiments.
The INP is a premier center for training and research, combining basic and translational studies to investigate neural cell organization, function, and interactions, as well as the molecular and cellular basis of major brain diseases. As part of the Centre of Excellence in Neurodegeneration (CoEN), the INP provides an internationally competitive research environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
The successful PhD candidate will be supervised by Dr. Maud Gratuze and will conduct the project at the Faculty of Medicine, located in the heart of Marseille. This location offers proximity to the stunning seafront, the Calanques National Park, and the picturesque countryside of Provence, ideal for outdoor and cultural activities.
TYPE OF CONTRACT: TEMPORARY / JOB STATUS: FULL TIME / HOURS PER WEEK: 35 to 39
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 31/01/2025 & TIME 12:00
ENVISAGED STARTING DATE: 02/02/2025
ENVISAGED DURATION: 36 months
JOB NOT FUNDED THROUGH AN EU RESEARCH FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME
HOW TO APPLY: maud.gratuze@univ-amu.fr
WORK LOCATION(S): Institute of Neuropathophysiology, CNRS/Aix-Marseille Université, 27 boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille, France
WHAT WE OFFER:
- A monthly gross salary in the range of 2000 to 2400 euros before taxes
- All legal and social protection for job holders in France including Health care insurance
- Attendance at weekly seminars featuring leading experts in the field, providing opportunities to network and learn from the best in the field.
- Through the NeuroSchool PhD program, the PhD candidate will have access to training dedicated to neuroscience and join a smaller and more targeted community. He/she will benefit from a variety of scientific events (basic and specialized courses, monthly tutored seminars, clinical training…), as well as professional, social and networking events in which they can actively participate in and/or organize (NeuroDays, special events).
- Opportunities to present at major international conferences, giving the student a platform to showcase their research and make valuable connections.
- Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology, allowing the student to perform cutting-edge research and stay at the forefront of the field.
- Personal and professional development training, including opportunities for leadership and communication skills development, to prepare the student for a successful career in academia or industry.
Additional information: The Euraxess Center of Aix-Marseille Université informs foreign visiting professors, researchers, postdoc and PhD candidates about the administrative steps to be undertaken prior to arrival at AMU and the various practical formalities to be completed once in France: visas and entry requirements, insurance, help finding accommodation, support in opening a bank account, etc. More information on AMU EURAXESS Portal
QUALIFICATIONS, REQUIRED RESEARCH FIELDS, REQUIRED EDUCATION LEVEL, PROFESSIONAL SKILLS, OTHER RESEARCH REQUIREMENTS
To apply, candidates must hold an internationally-recognized Master-equivalent degree in biology, neurosciences or related fields. No restrictions of citizenship apply to the position. Previous knowledge/experience on either Alzheimer’s pathogenesis, proteomics, basic methods on biochemistry and molecular biology, cell culture, confocal/super-resolution microscopy, behavioral experiments will be highly appreciated but is not mandatory.
Preferable: comfortable with mouse handling
Soft skills: Autonomy, work ethic, critical thinking, adaptability, teamwork, motivation, curiosity, problem-solving
REQUESTED DOCUMENTS OF APPLICATION, ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, SELECTION PROCESS
Suitable candidates are requested to submit:
- a Curriculum Vitae
- a presentation letter with declaration of interests and a description of your past achievements (max. 1 page)
- contact email of two potential references
- a scanned copy of your university academic transcripts in English
- a scanned copy of the Master degree, if available at the time of application
- a scanned copy of standardized English test results (TOEFL, TOEIC, …) if available
