PhD Thesis (M/F) : Development of a Hybrid Magnetic Nanoplatform for Intracellular RNA Delivery

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The delivery of RNA into the cytosol represents a major challenge for the development of new delivery strategies and RNA-based therapies. Indeed, following cellular internalization, RNA molecules are frequently trapped within endosomal compartments and subsequently degraded. The development of new lipids, particularly cationic and ionizable lipids, capable of promoting interactions and fusion with cellular or endosomal membranes, has led to major advances in this field, culminating in the development of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19.
The objective of this PhD thesis is to develop a hybrid nanoplatform by combining magnetic and fusogenic liposomes with extracellular vesicles. This approach aims to combine the biological properties of extracellular vesicles, particularly their natural ability to transport RNA, with the physicochemical properties of liposomes designed to promote membrane fusion and enable magnetic guidance.
The resulting nanoplatform should therefore enable the targeted and efficient delivery of RNA into cells by promoting its transport to the cytosol while limiting its sequestration within endosomal compartments.
The project will include, in particular, the preparation and physicochemical characterization of magnetic liposomes, their association with extracellular vesicles, and the evaluation of their RNA delivery properties.

Candidate Profile

The project is aimed at a chemist interested in the formulation and biological and biomedical applications of nanomaterials. Knowledge of the physical chemistry of dispersed systems, formulation, lipid chemistry, or nanomaterials would be particularly appreciated. An interest in interdisciplinary approaches at the interface of chemistry, nanoscience, and biology is also highly desirable.

Your Work Environment

The work will be carried out at the PHENIX laboratory, within the Inorganic Colloids team at Sorbonne University. A collaboration with Claire Wilhelm from the PCC laboratory at Institut Curie is planned for the study of extracellular vesicles.

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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