PhD in molecular genetics (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The correct expression of a gene depends on the integrity of its nucleotide sequence, but also on the presence of appropriate epigenetic marks, allowing the fine tuning of its spatio-temporal expression. CRISPR-Cas gene editing has primarily been used to introduce mutations that inactivate the expression of the targeted gene.
The most important expectation of gene editing is the localized modification of a target gene sequence to create new alleles of agronomic interest. This implies that the target gene, as well as the adjacent genic regions, must remain properly expressed and regulated. Therefore, the possibility that the original epigenetic marks of the target gene may have been altered during the editing process must be considered as a potential risk.
The objective of the EpiCRISPR project (Elucidation of the unexpected effects of gene inactivation induced by CRISPR-Cas) is to (i) decipher, in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, how CRISPR-Cas9-induced DNA break leads to modifications of the genome and of the epigenome and (ii) develop molecular genetics tools to circumvent these effects.

This project offers knowledge and experience in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, epigenetics, and bioinformatics. The candidate will learn techniques in chromatin biochemistry and functional (epi)genomics. The candidate will also receive training in writing and communication skills, as well as in presenting results to diverse audiences.

Your Work Environment

The position is located at IBMP in Strasbourg (France) and is available for 36 months, starting in June 2026. The Institute of Molecular Biology of Plants (IBMP; http://www.ibmp.cnrs.fr) is the largest CNRS research institute in plant sciences in France. It hosts 20 research teams and is recognized for its expertise in genomics, genetics, metabolism, biochemistry, cell biology and molecular physiology of plants.

The candidate (M/F) will join the EpiCRISPR project (Elucidation of the unexpected effects of gene inactivation induced by CRISPR-Cas) supported by: France 2030 - PEPR "SVA: Advanced Plant Selection" and involving 2 partners.

The candidate (M/F) will be enrolled in the Doctoral School of Life and Health Sciences at the University of Strasbourg (http://ed.vie-sante.unistra.fr/) which offers numerous technical and cross-disciplinary training courses (108 hours of mandatory training). Within the laboratory, the candidate (M/F) will be supervised by a permanent researcher and a monitoring committee will support them throughout their thesis project.


The candidate (M/F) must hold a Master's degree in molecular and/or cellular biology, be able to communicate in English both orally and in writing (level B2 or higher), and have an interest in epigenetics and functional genomics. The candidate (M/F) must have experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, and tissue culture. Prior experience in epigenetics and bioinformatics is an asset. Applications must include a detailed CV; two references (persons who may be contacted); a one-page cover letter; and a one-page summary of the Master's thesis.

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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