Missions

The Development and Plasticity of the Root System team is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on an exciting project focusing on root development and phenotyping. This position provides an excellent opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in a dynamic and well-equipped environment, benefiting from IPSiM's state-of-the-art platforms and interdisciplinary expertise.
The successful candidate will investigate the AoDev pathway, which regulates cluster root formation in white lupin. A genetic screen has identified several mutants with altered cluster root formation. The identification of the receptor-like kinase CCR1 revealed a shared regulatory pathway between cluster root and nodule formation, defining the Autoregulation of Cluster Root and Nodule Development (AoDev) pathway. This work was recently published as a bioRxiv preprint, with the corresponding article currently under revision at PNAS (Marques et al., 2024). The pathway operates through a root-to-shoot-to-root signaling mechanism, negatively regulating root organ formation. The postdoctoral researcher will focus on a second mutant, ccr2, which presents a similar phenotype to ccr1 but functions locally in the roots. A potential candidate gene for ccr2 has already been identified.

Activités

• Validation of the candidate gene: Generate ccr2 mutant alleles using a TILLING population developed in the team.
• Phenotypic characterization: Finalize the characterization of ccr2, focusing on cluster root formation, nodulation, and nutrient response.
• Biochemical analysis: Investigate the activity of the CCR2 protein and/or its substrate.
• Expression studies: Analyze CCR2 expression patterns and its response to phosphate/nitrate starvation and organ production (cluster roots and nodules).
• Genetic studies: Finalize the production of double mutant lines and conduct phenotypic analyses.

Compétences

• Ph.D. in Plant Biology, Genetics, or a related field.
• Strong background in root system development, plant phenotyping, and/or plant physiology.
• Experience in protein and small peptide biochemistry.
• Proficiency in cloning and genetic transformation techniques.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to an interdisciplinary research team.
• Strong collaborative skills and initiative in establishing new research connections.

Contexte de travail

The successful candidate will join the Development and Plasticity of the Root System team at UMR IPSiM (Institute for Plant Sciences of Montpellier), located on the INRAE/Institut Agro campus in Montpellier, France. The institute provides an outstanding scientific environment with access to advanced facilities for plant research.
This position offers a unique opportunity for a talented and motivated researcher to contribute to cutting-edge studies on root system plasticity and legume improvement. If you are passionate about plant development and eager to be part of a high-impact research project, we strongly encourage you to apply!