Research Engineer (M/F) in biochemistry and cell biology, topic: signaling and neurodegenerative diseases

Job Description

Missions

The successful candidate will contribute to a SATT/CNRS maturation project focused on the design, development, and evaluation of the therapeutic potential of small chemical molecules targeting a key signaling effector involved in neuronal degeneration in amyloid-related neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the identification of the underlying mechanisms of action.

Activity

The successful candidate will participate in discussions with computational modelers and medicinal chemists involved in the project regarding the design and optimization of chemical compounds.

The candidate will perform Structure–Activity Relationship (SAR) studies on candidate molecules to evaluate their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in cultured neurons and immune cells challenged with amyloid proteins.

The candidate will develop assays to measure:

(i) cell viability,
(ii) inflammatory cytokine production, and
(iii) neuronal susceptibility to inflammation.

They will assess target engagement using biochemical assays and identify the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms underlying the modulatory effects of the candidate compounds through pharmacological approaches.

The candidate will be responsible for formatting, analyzing, and statistically evaluating experimental data. They will work closely with computational modelers and medicinal chemists to guide the structural optimization of chemical compounds in order to improve their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory efficacy.

Additional Responsibilities

Participate in regular team meetings (lab meetings).
Contribute to shared laboratory duties and the overall life of the research group.

Your Profil

Skills

In-depth knowledge of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in amyloid-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Expertise in mammalian cell culture (established cell lines and primary cultures) under Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) conditions.
Experience handling prion-like proteins, including α-synuclein and Aβ peptides.
Knowledge of current regulations governing the handling of prion-like agents.
Proficiency in:
Molecular biology techniques (RT-qPCR),
Biochemistry (ELISA, Western blotting, enzymatic assays),
Cell biology (cell culture, fluorescence microscopy imaging),
Pharmacology.
Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
PhD in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Neurobiology, or a related field.

Your Work Environment

The successful candidate will join the Signaling and Neurodegenerative Diseases research team (headed by B. Schneider), which is part of the CNRS UMR7654 Structural Biology of the Cell (BIOC) laboratory, directed by E. Schmitt. The laboratory is located within the interdisciplinary research center of École Polytechnique, one of France's most selective and prestigious Grandes Écoles, attracting outstanding students and researchers from around the world.

École Polytechnique is a member of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris, a consortium of six internationally renowned Grandes Écoles. The research team has access to all the infrastructure required to carry out the project, as well as support from the Engineering for Health (E4H) Interdisciplinary Center.

Constraints and risks

The position involves risks associated with handling prion-like proteins and the use of chemical and biological agents.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Gross monthly salary between €3,237.95 and €3,505.53

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

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.

CNRS

The research professions