Postdoctoral researcher (M/F) – Cell mechanics with AFM / confocal
New
- Researcher in FTC
- 12 months
- Doctorate
This offer is available in English version
This offer is open to people with a document recognizing their status as a disabled worker.
Offer at a glance
The Unit
Chimie et Biologie des Membranes et des Nanoobjets
Contract Type
Researcher in FTC
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
33600 PESSAC
Contract Duration
12 months
Date of Hire
04/01/2027
Remuneration
between 3 041€ à 3 467€ gross per month,
Apply Application Deadline : 14 August 2026 23:59
Job Description
Missions
The group “Methodological developments in AFM for biological applications” at the CBMN (Bordeaux) is currently seeking a postdoctoral researcher specialized in structural, mechanical, dynamical and functional characterization of cells interacting with bacterial peptide assemblies. This is a highly interdisciplinary project, funded by an ERC StG, at the frontier between cellular and structural biology, and biophysics, notably combining atomic force microscopy (AFM) and advanced fluorescence and confocal microscopy.
Project Background. Staphylococcus aureus, an opportunistic pathogen resistant to many antibiotics, relies on a broad arsenal of virulence factors to colonize the host and cause infection. Among them, phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs) are a family of amphiphilic peptides that play a key role in (i) biofilm structuring and maturation, (ii) host cell lysis through membrane disruption, and
(iii) activation of the inflammatory response via specific membrane receptors (FPR2). Beyond their biological functions, PSMs exhibit a strong propensity to self-assemble into amyloid fibrils with diverse architectures, potentially linked to their cytotoxic and/or pro-inflammatory activities. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying PSM functions remain largely poorly understood.
Project Objective. We aim to understand how the physicochemical properties and self-assembly dynamics of PSMs govern their interactions with cellular membranes and ultimately control host cell death. More specifically, the project aims to characterise the impact of PSMs on cell mechanics. In addition to membrane alterations, particular attention will be paid to the actin network, as its remodelling is potentially associated with the internalisation of FPR2 during its interaction with PSMs. To this end, the project will adopt an in cellulo and multi-scale approach, ranging from live-cell studies to single-molecule analysis, in order to identify the structural, physicochemical, and dynamic determinants involved in peptide-membrane interactions. Confocal microscopy will, in particular, enable the tracking of cytoskeletal reorganisation and alterations in the plasma membrane, whilst atomic force microscopy (AFM) will allow the analysis of the mechanical properties of cells (stiffness, topography, adhesion).
Activity
• Cell culture (HEK mammalian cells, bacteria)
• Biophysical methods for characterising peptides and membrane proteins
• Fluorescence microscopy: confocal, TIRF
• Force spectroscopy – atomic force microscopy
• Analysis, formatting and presentation of results
Your Profil
Skills
• Knowledge of cell biology
• Expertise in fluorescence microscopy
• Expertise in atomic force microscopy
• Knowledge of biophysical techniques applied to peptides and proteins
• Handling of chemical and biological substances
• Fluency in English
• Written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Your Work Environment
This project integrates expertise in membrane biophysics, cell biology, and advanced imaging, spanning from the cellular to the molecular scale. It will be supervised by Marion Mathelié-Guinlet at the Institute of Chemistry and Biology of Membranes and Nano-Objects (CBMN), University of Bordeaux, within the framework of her ERC Starting Grant PUMBA. This funding will support the project environment and the potential extension of the postdoctoral contract. In this context, the postdoc will have access to state-of-the-art facilities at the CBMN for structural and nanomechanical investigation of biological systems and correlative imaging. Besides, CBMN provides a perfect, dynamic and stimulating environment for this project, as we significantly collaborate with different teams, experts in cellular / molecular biology, physical-chemistry, and front-end methodological developments to address major challenges in the field of peptide-membrane interactions.
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
between 3 041€ à 3 467€ gross per month,
Annual leave and RTT
44 jours
Remote Working practice and compensation
Pratique et indemnisation du TT
Transport
Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€
About the offer
| Offer reference | UMR5248-MARMAT-005 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Chemistry of and for life: design and properties of molecules of biological interest |
About the CNRS
The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.
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