Postdoctoral Researcher (M/F) in Microbial Ecology Applied to Volcanic Soils
New
- Researcher in FTC
- 20 month
- 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
Ecologie Microbienne
Contract Type
Researcher in FTC
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
69622 VILLEURBANNE
Contract Duration
20 month
Date of Hire
01/09/2026
Remuneration
From €3,072 depending on experience.
Apply Application Deadline : 16 July 2026 23:59
Job Description
Missions
The postdoctoral researcher will work within the Microbial Ecology Laboratory as part of the SOSIE project, funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR).
The SOSIE project aims to understand the processes that modulate, over time and across space, the evolution of diffuse CO₂ emissions of both abiotic and biotic origin from volcanic systems.
The successful candidate will work at the interface of microbial ecology, molecular biology, and soil biogeochemistry.
They will be responsible for integrating microbial ecology and molecular biology approaches, including environmental metagenomics, to improve our understanding of the role of microorganisms in regulating the balance between the production and consumption of greenhouse gases (GHGs).
Activity
The main responsibilities will include:
• Participating in field campaigns to collect soil samples and acquire and process diffuse CO₂ flux data.
• Characterizing soil microbial communities in volcanic environments using molecular biology approaches (DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR of functional genes, and metabarcoding) to describe their diversity, structure, and activity, and to identify the functional groups involved in the biological processes under investigation.
• Disseminating scientific results through the publication of peer-reviewed articles, presentations at national and international conferences, and active participation in the scientific life of the research team and the SOSIE project.
Your Profil
Skills
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate holding a PhD in microbiology, microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, or a related discipline. Applicants should have strong experience in environmental molecular biology and metagenomic data analysis. Experience in fieldwork involving the measurement and analysis of greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes is highly desirable.
The successful candidate will be able to work independently while actively contributing to a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are essential.
Your Work Environment
The Microbial Ecology Laboratory (LEM), a CNRS research unit based in Lyon, is an internationally recognized research center where scientific excellence and innovation come together. The laboratory is dedicated to understanding the complex interactions between microorganisms and their environment.
At LEM, we investigate the fundamental mechanisms underlying microbial interactions, from the molecular scale to the ecosystem level. Our research aims to understand the relationships between microbial and plant functional diversity related to nitrogen cycling and the biotic and abiotic components of a wide range of environments. Through this work, we seek to assess the contribution of biodiversity to ecosystem functions and services, including soil fertility maintenance, climate regulation (particularly through greenhouse gas emissions), and water quality.
We offer:
• A stimulating and dynamic research environment alongside scientists, engineers, and technical staff.
• 44 days of annual leave and additional RTT (working time reduction) days per year.
• Access to tailored training and professional development opportunities.
• Reimbursement of 75% of public transportation costs and a sustainable mobility allowance of up to €300 per year.
• Financial contribution towards health insurance coverage.
Constraints and risks
The project includes field campaigns on Réunion Island. A strong interest in and aptitude for fieldwork are therefore required.
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
From €3,072 depending on experience.
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 | UMR5557-ALEFLO-002 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Continental surface and interfaces |
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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