PhD Student in Biochemistry and Structural Biology (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The candidate will work on a project funded by the ANR and whose objective is the characterization of the lipoprotein localization system in Gram-negative bacteria and its implications for antibiotic resistance. The cell wall constitutes the first line of defense for bacteria against antibiotics, in particular. Anchored to the membrane, lipoproteins maintain the integrity of this wall and are involved in vital functions such as nutrient acquisition and virulence. In diderm bacteria, their transport to the outer membrane is a vital process ensured by the lipoprotein localization system (Lol), a recognized antibacterial target for the development of new antibiotics. In E. coli, this system consists of a transmembrane transporter LolCDE, a periplasmic protein LolA, and LolB, a receptor linked to the outer membrane. The project aims will use molecular biology, biochemistry and structural biology tools to better understand how this system operates and identify new inhibitory compounds by screening-based approaches.

Tasks include
- Performing experiments in microbiology, biochemistry, and structural biology
- Analyzing and processing results
- Realise written reports and oral presentations of the results
- Writing scientific publications in English
- Supervising internship students
- Participating in national and/or international scientific conferences

Skills and prior experience
- skills in molecular biology, biochemistry and structural biology (protein purification, experience with membrane protein, enzymatic characterization, reconstitution into proteoliposomes and/or nanodiscs)
- English level B2 to C1

Your Work Environment

The recruited person will work on weekdays. Depending on the experiments, they may occasionally need to come in briefly on weekends - for example, to start precultures. They may also be required to collect data at the synchrotron (ESRF, Grenoble) or at external cryo-EM platforms until the local platform is operational. Additionally, they may carry out short-term assignments at collaborating institutions.

The research will take place at the Molecular Microbiology and Structural Biochemistry Unit (MMSB), based at the Lyon Gerland Biosciences Campus. As a multidisciplinary Joint Research Unit (UMR) co-supervised by the CNRS and the University of Lyon, MMSB focuses on unraveling the molecular mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and exploring molecular and macromolecular interactions—examining their structure, dynamics, and function. The unit integrates microbiology, biochemistry, and structural biology approaches.
MMSB brings together 11 research groups with over 90 members and is conveniently located near Lyon's city center, with easy access to public transport (metro, tram, and bike paths). The lab provides a supportive and stimulating work environment, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for professional growth.
The selected candidate will join the "ABC Transporters and Antibiotic Resistance (ATRA)" team which currently includes six permanent staff members (Research Directors, Research Associates, Engineers, and University Lecturers) and several non-permanent members (Master's students, PhD candidates, and interns). The candidate will collaborate closely with the team's researchers and students on a daily basis.

Constraints and risks

The position is located in a sector covered by the Protection of Scientific and Technical Potential (PPST). In accordance with current regulations, your arrival must therefore be authorized by the competent authority of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR). The recruited person must comply with the site's controlled access conditions (schedule, badge, etc.). The strains and proteins studied do not pose any risk to human health.

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