PhD thesis: Genomic and morphologial characterization of a planktonic symbiosis (M/F)
New
- FTC PhD student / Offer for thesis
- 36 months
- BAC+5
This offer is available in English version
This offer is open to people with a document recognizing their status as a disabled worker.
Offer at a glance
The Unit
Laboratoire de physiologie cellulaire et végétale
Contract Type
FTC PhD student / Offer for thesis
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
38054 GRENOBLE
Contract Duration
36 months
Date of Hire
01/11/2026
Remuneration
2300 € gross monthly
Apply Application Deadline : 27 July 2026 23:59
Job Description
Thesis Subject
This PhD project focuses on the study of symbioses between marine planktonic hosts (Radiolaria and Dinoflagellates) and cyanobacteria, combining innovative single-cell genomics and imaging approaches. The first objective is to characterize the diversity of host-cyanobiont associations through single-cell genomics in different oceanic regions and seasons. This approach will be complemented by fluorescence and electron microscopy in 3D to finely characterize the physical integration of symbionts within their hosts. The second objective is to study the metabolic connection between host and symbiont using stable isotopes (13C and 15N) coupled with NanoSIMS imaging (Nanoscale Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry). Finally, the project will also aim to analyze the genomes of cyanobionts from isolated cells, cross-referencing them with existing Tara omics data. In collaboration with Samuel Chaffron (INS2I and FRA GOSEE), modelling analyses will be undertaken to better understand the metabolism of cyanobionts. Overall, this multidisciplinary PhD project will shed new light on the nature of an enigmatic marine symbiosis in the plankton.
Expected skills and knowledge:
Training in marine biology and/or oceanography
Knowledge and interest in cellular interactions: mutualistic symbiosis or parasitism
Knowledge and expertise in electron microscopy and/or genomic analysis (genome analysis, molecular sequencing)
Expertise in microalgae culture and physiology will be appreciated
Ability to work independently in an interdisciplinary and international environment (fluent English), and to interact within a young and dynamic research group
Your Work Environment
The PhD is funded through a "CNRS International" grant from the Mission pour les Initiatives Transverses et Interdisciplinaires (MITI). The project will take place within the Photosymbiosis team (photosymbiosis.com) at the Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire et Végétale (UMR 5168 – CNRS – CEA – Univ. Grenoble Alpes – INRAe), based at CEA Grenoble, under the co-supervision of Prof. Patrick Keeling (University of British Columbia, Vancouver). Alongside the two host laboratories, interactions and collaborations will involve the imaging platforms of Grenoble and EMBL, as well as the Tara Oceans consortium and the FRA GOSEE.
Constraints and risks
no risks
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
| Offer reference | UMR5168-JOHDEC-028 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Organisation, expression and evolution of genomes Bioinformatics and systems biology |
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.
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