Bioengineering of regionalized human cortical models on a chip (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Brain organoids are major models of human brain development, but they still imperfectly reproduce the regionalisation and layering of the cortex. The ERC Synergy PatCorg project aims to create organoids that more closely recapitulate the organisation of the human cortex, using microfluidics.

The objective of the doctoral project will be to develop a cortex-on-chip model to spatially and temporally control the delivery of morphogens in order to induce cortical organizing centers and to study the formation of regionalization axes comparable to the anterior-posterior and medio-lateral axes of the developing cortex.
Activities, Main missions
Culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into neuroepithelium and cortical organoids.
Use and optimization of μ-transwell microfluidic devices to locally deliver morphogens on the basal surface of the tissue.
Study of the influence of concentration, duration of exposure, combinations of morphogens and distance between organizing centers.
Analysis of cortical regionalization by imaging and quantification of transcription factor gradients, including EMX2, PAX6 and SP8.
Characterization of Cajal-Retzius cell generation, localization and migration.
Participation in the development of three-dimensional cortical models with improved spatial organization and stratification.
Quantitative analysis of imaging data and collaboration with PatCorg consortium partners.The candidate should hold a master's degree or equivalent in cell and developmental biology, bioengineering, biophysics, neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or microfluidics. Experience in at least one of the following areas would be particularly appreciated:

1. pluripotent stem cells or organoids;

2. development of the nervous system;

3. microfluidics or organs-on-a-chip;

4. microscopy and quantitative image analysis;

5. Scientific programming, including Python, Fiji/ImageJ, or MATLAB.

A strong motivation for interdisciplinary projects at the interface between developmental biology, neuroscience and bioengineering will be essential.

Your Work Environment

We offer a highly interdisciplinary, inclusive and international work environment at the Cell and Cancer Physics Unit (CNRS, Institut Curie, PSL, SU). Located in the heart of the rich Latin Quarter in Paris, our unit hosts experimental and theoretical physicists, biologists and biochemists.
We are deeply committed to fostering diversity and are looking for talented scientists in all fields at the physics-biology interface.

Constraints and risks

Constraints and risks:
1. Biological risks (L1/L2): L2
2. Chemical / Laser / Optical risks: Laser
3. Animal experimentation: NO

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

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