Missions

During metamorphosis, the wings of Drosophila undergo a fivefold expansion in surface area. The wing tissue is composed of two cell layers whose cells no longer divide, and which are connected by a basal extracellular matrix. This tissue extends within the spatial limits of a cuticular sac that forms an envelope. In order to meet this requirement for surface expansion in this spatially restricted state, the wing folds while ensuring that the two cell layers expand synchronously to allow a flat conformation at the end of development. We aim to understand how these two cell layers coordinate their growth while having to fold. In addition, we are interested in the role of intrinsic tissue features that enable robust folding, such as longitudinally extending veins. We are looking for a motivated theorist to interface with experimental work on the folding model and the mechanical deformations that occur during growth.

Activités

The postdoc will build quantitative models on the growth and deformation of biological tissues that develop under spatial confinement, namely the Drosophila wing folding model during metamorphosis. In addition, the postdoc will develop quantitative approaches to recapitulate the dynamics of expansion and folding of the two cell layers. The postdoc will collaborate with experimental biophysicists to refine our understanding of the key players involved in the folding model.

Compétences

The postdoctoral fellow must have solid quantitative experience, preferably in the field of deformation of viscoelastic materials. The postdoc should also be able to generate simulations, in particular using the finite element method. Although the postdoc is not expected to have worked with experimental biologists in the past, we would welcome communication between different scientific disciplines.

Contexte de travail

Located on the Luminy campus, IBDM employs around 220 permanent researchers, lecturers, engineers and technicians, as well as non-permanent staff on fixed-term contracts, post-docs, PhD students and trainees, spread across 21 research teams and 11 technical platforms and services. IBDM is a joint research unit under the supervision of CNRS and AMU, exploring the field of developmental biology and associated pathologies. The position will be carried out within Thomas LECUIT's team. As the laboratory is made up of several nationalities, fluency in English is essential.

Contraintes et risques

None
The candidate must be fluent in English and have a background in theoretical physics.