Description du sujet de thèse

Cajal–Retzius (CR) cells are among the earliest-born neurons in the developing cortex and play a crucial role in establishing proper cortical regionalization and lamination. Distinct CR subtypes are generated at signaling centers in response to morphogens and participate through migration and morphogens release in long range-patterning of cortical regions. However, their developmental origins and the molecular mechanisms underlying CR function in humans remain poorly understood. We are seeking a PhD student candidate for the PatCorg ERC Synergy project, which aims to investigate how specific morphogens regulate the formation of signaling centers and the emergence of distinct CR cell lineages in human brain organoids. By systematically modulating key morphogen pathways, we will assess their effects on CR cell specification, subtype diversity, and their capacity to enhance regionalization and laminar organization within cortical-like structures. Through these studies, we seek to advance the development of a physiologically relevant human brain organoid model that more accurately recapitulates early cortical development, enabling the investigation of neuronal migration disorders and the functional organization of human neural circuits.

Contexte de travail

Mission objectives
We are looking for a highly motivated and ambitious individual who is methodical, rigorous, reactive, and attentive, with a strong work ethic and high integrity. He/she will already have experience with human stem cells, neuronal differentiation, as well as 3D culture, organoids in the context of neurodevelopment and disorders. He/she will have some experience in generating stable lines in human stem cells, current single-cell omics technologies, including single-cell RNA-seq, confocal microscopy, immunolabelling, and image analysis.

Specific responsibilities:
- To generate different stable lines for live imaging, birthdating, and ablation of CR cells and their respective signalling center origins
- To work on the molecular profiling of tissues and cells from human stem cell-derived brain models
- To develop molecular insights about key morphogenic pathways responsible for the early patterning of the developing brain
- To use a variety of technologies to investigate CR cell specification, subtype diversity, and their impact on regionalization and lamination
- To implement analytical and bioinformatics tools to analyse and interpret data
- To establish workflows for the collection and analysis of samples, human stem-cell-derived brain organoids, and to develop experimental protocols
General responsibilities:
- To contribute to experiment design, generation, and analysis of data for the team's research projects
- To maintain careful permanent records of all experimental work.
- To maintain appropriate databases, keep accurate written and digital records, and ensure that these records are stored securely and confidentially
- To attend and participate in the institute's academic activities
- To keep up to date with scientific and professional issues, in particular developments in the specific subject area
Requirements
Education Level:
- master's degree or equivalent
Required Knowledge:
- Cell culture (iPSC/organoids knowledge is appreciated)
- General knowledge in genetics and molecular biology
- Neurodevelopment background
Operational Skills:
- Strong cell culture experiences (iPSC/organoids expertise is appreciated)
- Imaging/ confocal experiences
- Good communication skills and English proficiency (B2 to C1).
- Flexibility
Desired experience:
- 2 to 5 years of research experience is preferred

Contraintes et risques

N/A

Informations complémentaires

Where will you work
Institut Imagine, based in Paris (France), is the largest European center for research, education, and care with the goal of understanding and curing genetic diseases. It brings together numerous specialists from around the world in order to make the various specialties needed for optimum research and patient care available in one place. The Institute was designed to promote communication and synergies between clinicians and researchers.

Salary and duration of contract
The PhD position is fully funded by the ERC (administered by the CNRS, French National Council of Research) for a duration of 3 years starting April 1st 2026.