PhD on the assembly of synthetic cells – interface soft matter/bioenergy (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The thesis project aims to develop new synthetic cells capable of maintaining biological functions within artificial micro-compartments. The project utilises coacervates, microdroplets formed by liquid–liquid phase separation, to create controlled physico-chemical environments for the organisation and functioning of biological systems dedicated to energy production. The thesis will focus in particular on the design and physico-chemical characterisation of coacervates capable of harbouring biologically active entities (enzymes, organelles), and their stabilisation against coalescence.

Activities
- Formulation of coacervates and development of stabilisation strategies
- Characterisation of various physicochemical properties and their influence on the encapsulation of biological systems
- Quantification of biochemical activities using spectroscopic methods
- Optical microscopy imaging
- Image and data analysis

Skills
- Master's degree in physical chemistry / soft matter (or equivalent)
- Highly motivated and possessing strong experimental skills.
- Proficiency in scientific English (oral and written comprehension and expression)
- Good organisational and communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Your Work Environment

The project is part of an interdisciplinary project (CHARGE) funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR).
The PhD research will be carried out under joint supervision within the "BioPhysioChimie" team at the Paul Pascal Research Centre (CRPP, http://www.crpp.cnrs.fr) and within the "SPECIMA" team at the Institute of Chemistry and Biology of Membranes and Nano-objects (CBMN) in Pessac. These two laboratories bring together chemists, biochemists, physical chemists and physicists, and are equipped with state-of-the-art scientific equipment, ranging from synthesis to the characterisation of soft matter and biological systems.
The position is in a sector covered by the Protection of Scientific and Technical Potential (PPST) scheme and therefore, in accordance with the regulations, your appointment must be authorised by the relevant authority at the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Research (MESR).

Constraints and risks

Work in a research laboratory specialising in chemistry and biology.

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