Missions

The research associated with this position aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which cells coordinate lipid fluxes to adapt to metabolic demands and environmental signals. Lipid metabolism is a highly dynamic process relying on the fine regulation of lipid storage, mobilization, and recycling, closely coupled to the maintenance of cellular energy homeostasis. A central question of this project is to understand how cells orchestrate lipid fluxes through functional interactions between organelles, as well as through associated biophysical adaptations in response to changes in energy demand.

More specifically, recruited researchers will study the mechanisms by which specific organelles modulate lipid synthesis, how the biophysical properties of membranes and intracellular compartments reorganize according to metabolic state, and how signaling pathways integrate with physical constraints to ensure an optimal balance between lipid storage and energy production. By combining quantitative biophysics, advanced imaging, and cellular biology approaches, this project aims to identify the fundamental molecular and physical principles governing lipid homeostasis and organelle dynamics.

Activités

The project is based on an interdisciplinary approach combining biophysics and cellular biology to study the regulation of lipid fluxes and organelle dynamics in response to metabolic states. Two postdoctoral researchers with complementary profiles will be recruited.

Postdoctoral researcher in Physics/Biophysics
The postdoctoral researcher in physics will develop quantitative approaches to analyze the biophysical properties of membranes and organelles involved in lipid metabolism. They will combine advanced imaging and data analysis to identify the physical principles governing lipid fluxes and organelle adaptations.

Postdoctoral researcher in Cellular Biology
The postdoctoral researcher in cellular biology will study the molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling lipid synthesis, storage, and mobilization, as well as inter-organelle communication. They will implement cellular models and cellular/molecular biology approaches to link metabolic regulation with subcellular organization.

Compétences

Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics/Biophysics
• PhD in physics, biophysics, or related disciplines.
• Strong expertise in quantitative biophysics and/or modeling approaches.
• Experience in advanced imaging, quantitative data analysis, and image processing.
• Ability to develop interdisciplinary approaches interfacing with biology.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Cellular Biology
• PhD in cellular biology, molecular biology, or related fields.
• Experience in cell culture and cellular imaging.
• Experience in protein purification.
• Proficiency in genetic and/or pharmacological perturbation approaches.
• Interest in questions related to metabolism and subcellular organization.

Contexte de travail

The LPENS laboratory offers a unique interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of biology, physics, and chemistry. The team works in a collaborative and stimulating atmosphere that encourages scientific exchange and integrated approaches. Postdoctoral researchers will have access to state-of-the-art imaging and cellular biology platforms, as well as a dynamic international research environment.

Contraintes et risques

The project involves the use of advanced experimental techniques in imaging and cellular biology, requiring specific training and strict adherence to established safety protocols. Experimental work may include handling cell cultures and chemical reagents, with associated biological and chemical risks managed within a regulated framework. The research activity may also involve periods of intensive experimentation and work with complex instruments, requiring rigor, organization, and compliance with laboratory safety rules.