Description du sujet de thèse

Lipids are a heterogeneous class of biomolecules involved in energy storage, signaling, and modulation of membrane protein functions. Lipids are complex metabolites with significant structural and functional diversity, due in particular to the coexistence of multiple isomers. Lipids' molecular structure and biological functions are closely linked, making crucial accurate annotations of these compounds. Structural characterization at the isomeric level of complex lipids such as glycerophospholipids (GPLs) therefore offers an opportunity to improve understanding of the relationship between lipid metabolism and their biological activities. Since it has been demonstrated that GPLs carrying a particular double bond position could be biomarkers of various diseases, the development of an analytical method at the isomeric level would represent a significant advance for the early diagnosis of many diseases.
In this context, the aim of the thesis project is to develop a sensitive and robust MS method based on copper adduction to characterize complex lipids at all isomeric levels. Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) will be used to carry out this project, coupled with various separative methods such as chromatography and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). Over and above fundamental knowledge of the gas-phase reactivity and conformation of copper-adducted lipids, the results of this project will have multiple implications for lipidomics.

The candidate, who will join the research team at the Institute of Chemistry for Natural Substances, must have a solid background in analytical chemistry. The candidate must be able to work independently, with a sense of adaptability and creativity. He/she should also enjoy working in a team, on a collaborative project with the LAMBE laboratory located at the University Evry Paris Saclay. A cover letter with CV and transcripts of grades and rankings from M1 and M2 are required.

Contexte de travail

The Institute of Chemistry for Natural Substances is a CNRS research unit focusing on chemistry and biology. Since 2015, it has been part of the Université Paris-Saclay, which brings together research and teaching establishments in the south of Paris. ICSN is located on the Gif-sur-Yvette campus and has a staff of 125, including 80 permanent employees, spread over 3 buildings. Within the “Structural and Analytical Chemistry and Biology” Department, the new recruit will join the mass spectrometry team, comprising 2 researchers and 2 engineers. The candidate will work directly with the team leader and in collaboration with other team members. Travel to the LAMBE site (Evry-Courcouronnes) will also be required for ion mobility experiments.

Contraintes et risques

Typical of an analytical laboratory