Missions

To advance our understanding of biomolecular interactions at interfaces, we design biomimetic models that allow us to dissect the role of interfacial parameters such as receptor type, lateral mobility, and clustering. These models are then applied to biological systems, as in our recent example showing that glycosaminoglycan ligands are sufficient to promote the motility of the parasite Toxoplasma gondii (Nat. Microbiol., https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-024-01818-3 ). The construction and characterization of tunable biomimetic surfaces will be carried out at DCM, where each stage — from model assembly to the assessment of stability and interaction specificity — will be monitored by complementary techniques (QCM-D, ellipsometry, AFM, electrochemistry). Lateral diffusion and clustering dynamics will be analyzed by high-resolution fluorescence imaging and FRAP in collaboration with IAB and LIPHY. Finally, the impact of surface architecture on biomolecular assembly will be probed at both the single-protein and cell level, combining DCM expertise with IAB facilities to investigate T. gondii adhesion and motility.

Activités

The candidate will join the I2BM team at DCM, where he/she will use advanced surface chemistry and state-of-the-art physicochemical characterization techniques (QCM-D, ellipsometry, SPR) to design well-defined and tunable biomimetic surfaces. In order to better understand the role of lateral mobility and cluster formation in biomolecular interactions, the study will be supplemented by high-resolution fluorescence imaging and FRAP experiments through collaborations with the IAB and LIPHY (Grenoble).

Compétences

The candidate should be motivated to work in an interdisciplinary research team. PhD in chemistry with a background in physical chemistry or biophysics is required. Skills in surface characterization techniques would be appreciated. Experience in scientific communication (article writing, conference presentations) is desirable. Working language will be English or French.

Contexte de travail

The work will be performed in the I2BM team of DCM (Département de Chimie Moléculaire, CNRS-UGA). I2BM research focuses on the design of supramolecular architectures and functional interfaces for bioanalysis, diagnostics and therapeutic applications (https://dcm.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr/research/ingenierie-et-interactions-biomoleculaires). The work will be conducted in collaboration with IAB (Institute of Advanced Biosciences, UGA-INSERM-CNRS) in the framework of a research project granted by the Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR, PRC "MiniToxoAd", 2024-26).

Le poste se situe dans un secteur relevant de la protection du potentiel scientifique et technique (PPST), et nécessite donc, conformément à la réglementation, que votre arrivée soit autorisée par l'autorité compétente du MESR.

Contraintes et risques

Experimental work will include the use of acoustic and optical characterization techniques, as well as the use of organic solvents. Standard safety protocols will be implemented, such as protective glasses and gloves, lab coats and the use of fume hoods.

Informations complémentaires

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