PhD student - Anthropology Biology Genetic (M/F)
New
- FTC PhD student / Offer for thesis
- 36 month
- Doctorate
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
Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles
Contract Type
FTC PhD student / Offer for thesis
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
91198 GIF SUR YVETTE
Contract Duration
36 month
Date of Hire
01/10/2026
Remuneration
2300 € gross monthly
Apply Application Deadline : 25 June 2026 23:59
Job Description
Thesis Subject
This project explores the interplay between genetics and culture through the study of olfactory adaptation to epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides), a plant emblematic of Mesoamerican cuisines. By combining population genetics, sensory anthropology, chemistry, and molecular biology, it investigates how prolonged exposure may have shaped specific genetic variants in olfactory receptors, while being reinforced by cultural practices.
The methodology integrates genomic analysis, in vitro functional assays, and fieldwork in Mexico, supplemented by molecular modeling to study the impact of mutations on olfactory perception. Supported by an international network, this project offers a novel approach to understanding how a culturally embedded odor becomes an identity marker, with implications for anthropology, neuroscience, and cultural heritage.
Your Work Environment
The PhD will be carried out between the laboratories of Léo Mariani (MNHN, Paris) and Claire de March (ICSN).
The UMR Paloc, based at the MNHN, is an interdisciplinary laboratory (anthropology, archaeology, ecology) where several colleagues work on Mexico and botanical questions in particular. The ICSN has strong expertise in the in vitro and in silico study of olfactory receptors. This rich and interdisciplinary scientific environment therefore provides an ideal framework for this PhD project.
Constraints and risks
Background in biological anthropology (with at least a strong interest in social anthropology, or ideally a dual Master's degree in both fields).
Fluent Spanish is mandatory (fieldwork in Mexico).
Interest in interdisciplinarity and fieldwork.
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 | UPR2301-CLADEM-002 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Anthropology and comparative study of contemporary societies |
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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