The Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier (IRIM) is offering a postdoctoral research position to study mycobacteriology and phage-host interactions. This 24-month project aims to identify new receptors involved in phage recognition and decipher the late stages of the infectious process to optimize phage therapy strategies.
Job Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (Chercheur en contrat CDD) |
| Research Area | Host-pathogen relations, immunology, inflammation, and mycobacteriology |
| Location | Montpellier, France (Hérault) |
| Duration | 24 months |
| Remuneration | From €3,021.50 gross monthly, adjustable according to experience |
| Expected Start Date | February 1, 2027 |
Job Description
The main objective of this work is to identify new receptors involved in phage recognition and to identify genes involved in the late stages of the infection process. Understanding these mechanisms will improve knowledge of phage-host specificity determinants and contribute to the optimization of new phage cocktails and the development of phage therapy strategies.
Key Activities:
- Characterize several phages from the environment and determine their host spectrum on a collection of clinical strains of Mycobacterium abscessus.
- Evaluate the efficiency and specificity of phage lysis in vitro, including synergistic interactions between phage therapy and antibiotic therapy.
- Generate phage-resistant bacterial mutants from sensitive strains.
- Perform genomic analysis of mutants to identify genes involved in phage resistance and bacterial genes necessary for early and/or late stages of infection.
Eligibility/Qualification
Candidates must hold a Doctorate (PhD) and possess 1 to 4 years of research experience. Required skills include:
- Mastery of molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, transformation, and construction of deletion mutants).
- Strong expertise in phage biology and mycobacteria.
- Extensive experience in bacterial genomics and sequence analysis.
- Problem-solving skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Working Environment
The researcher will be based at the Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier. Most experiments will be conducted in Level 2 containment laboratories. The role includes 44 days of annual leave/RTT, partial reimbursement of transportation costs, and sustainable mobility packages. Please note that experiments may occasionally require work outside of standard business hours, including weekends.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the official CNRS recruitment portal. Ensure your profile is fully completed, including your CV and relevant research experience.
Apply Link: Click here to apply via CNRS Portal
Last Date for Apply: Friday, November 13, 2026 (23:59 CET)
