Missions

Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous parasite responsible for a pathology called toxoplasmosis, which is particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals and developing fetuses. It is an obligate intracellular parasite, capable of developing in a large number of nucleated cells. The tachyzoite form of the parasite, associated with the acute manifestation of toxoplasmosis, is highly invasive and replicative. Under the influence of stress or the host's immune system, the parasite differentiates into the bradyzoite form, which is quiescent and associated with chronic toxoplasmosis. In order to develop, the tachyzoite and bradyzoite forms have metabolic requirements that are met by de novo synthesis within the parasite or by nutrient acquisition from the host cell. We are interested in the metabolic pathways required for the parasite's adaptation to its host and its persistence in order to identify potential therapeutic targets. This project aims to identify and validate the function of regulators or actors of specific metabolic pathways using functional genomics approaches. It is part of a collaboration with structuralists and biochemists that also aims to generate specific inhibitors of therapeutic targets already identified in the laboratory.

Activities

The project aims to identify new parasite-specific proteins containing an iron-sulfur (Fe-S) cofactor, to carry out their in-depth functional characterization and to discover new potential therapeutic targets. The position will involve the use of molecular tools to generate transgenic parasites, advanced imaging techniques and the implementation of new chemoproteomic protocols. Parasite culture, biochemistry and molecular laboratory techniques are an integral part of the daily work.

Skills

Required Skills
• Cell culture
• Molecular biology (cloning, Western blotting, RT-PCR, CRISPR-Cas9, etc.)
• Microscopy (epifluorescence, etc.)
Preferred Skills:
• Interest in parasitology
• Biochemistry (recombinant protein expression, immunoprecipitations, proteomics, etc.)
• Bioinformatics (R, etc.)
The candidate must have a PhD in microbiology, cell biology, or biochemistry; a solid background in biochemistry and/or parasitology; excellent organizational and problem-solving skills; the ability to lead an ambitious research project; strong written and oral communication skills in English; the ability to work independently and collaboratively; and a strong motivation to pursue an academic career.

Work Context

The LPHI research laboratory is a multidisciplinary research unit affiliated with the CNRS (UMR 5294)/INSERM (UA 15)/University of Montpellier, dedicated to the study of infectious processes and the host immune response. LPHI research teams conduct projects ranging from the in vitro study of fundamental biological processes to the comprehensive analysis of field samples and the mathematical modeling of cellular interactions. LPHI includes four teams working on parasite models (Toxoplasma and Plasmodium), thus offering a stimulating working environment and a wide range of skills and knowledge to acquire on parasite biology.
The University of Montpellier was founded in 1220 and is one of the oldest universities in the world. With over 50,000 students, 73 affiliated research platforms, and 15 cutting-edge technical platforms, it is recognized as one of the best universities in France. Montpellier is a vibrant Mediterranean city, rich in arts and culture, located between the sea and the beautiful countryside, offering many opportunities for outdoor activities.

Constraints and risks

The work involves handling a type 2 pathogen.

Additional Information

Make sure that you submit a CV, a statement of research interests, and two reference contacts