M/F Doctoral Dissertation in Cellular Neurobiology

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Subject:Regulation of synaptic development in cortical circuits by the atypical glutamate receptor delta-2 (GluD2)
Mission:Conduct research work within the framework of the described thesis topic during the duration of the doctoral contract, with the goal of completing and defending a PhD thesis.
Activities: The aim of this project is to elucidate the role of the GluD2 receptor in the formation and plasticity of postnatal cortical circuits, processes that are essential for sensory and cognitive functions. While GluD2 is primarily studied in the cerebellum, where it plays a key role in synaptogenesis and plasticity, its expression in neocortical pyramidal neurons (particularly L23 CPNs) and its involvement in neurodevelopmental disorders (such as autism and intellectual disabilities) remain poorly understood. To achieve this goal, three main approaches are proposed:
1. Analysis of Cortical Development: By modulating GluD2 expression in utero through electroporation or using knockout mice (Grid2-Cre), we will study its impact on the formation of dendrites and synapses in L23 CPNs at critical developmental stages.
2. Interaction with Metabolic Pathways: We will explore the links between GluD2 and lipid metabolism using biochemical and imaging techniques (FRAP).
3. Impact on Cortical Circuits: Using trans-synaptic tracing strategies, we will identify the circuits affected by GluD2 manipulation.
This work could provide the first comprehensive analysis of GluD2 in the neocortex, uncovering cellular mechanisms whose disruption contributes to neurodevelopmental pathologies. The findings will shed light on its role in postnatal synaptic stabilization and its implications for cognitive disorders.

Your Work Environment

The team led by Cécile Charrier, titled "Development and Synaptic Plasticity," focuses on studying the fundamental mechanisms of development and synaptic plasticity. Its research particularly explores human-specific regulations and their implications in neurodevelopmental disorders. The team, consisting of one research director, one associate professor, three postdoctoral researchers, three doctoral students, and two study engineers, utilizes murine models as well as neurons derived from induced pluripotent cells. The team is funded by a European ERC grant for the next five years. The institute : IBENS (Institute of Biology of the ENS) is a leading research center in biology, bringing together over 300 individuals across 30 autonomous teams. Its work spans diverse fields such as neuroscience, genomics, and ecology, combining experimental, technological, and theoretical approaches. The institute is actively involved in training students and young researchers.

Constraints and risks

Biological Risks Associated with Working with Laboratory Animals

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

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