Persistent human infections caused by the environmental-borne emerging pathogens of the genus A[...]

Organisation/Company Universite de Montpellier Department Human Resources Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 20 May 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Paris) Country France Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Reference Number 2026-D0014 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

- work environment: This PhD research forms part of the Nexus doctoral network (3 PhD students), which is dedicated to the study of the microbial exposome and persistent infections. More specifically, this research focuses on bacteria of the genus Achromobacter, Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the beta-proteobacteria group, found in soil and water, and which act as opportunistic pathogens in humans. They mainly affect vulnerable populations, particularly immunocompromised individuals and those with cystic fibrosis. These bacteria can survive within eukaryotic cells, although their mechanisms of infection remain poorly understood. A zebrafish embryo model has been developed to study the pathogenicity of Achromobacter spp. isolates from various sources, demonstrating their high persistence within the host. A better understanding of these environmental bacteria will help guide the development of future antimicrobial treatments.

- main mission: The PhD project is focused on better understanding the bacteria/macrophage interaction during persistent infection caused by Achromobacter spp.. The ability to survive in macrophages might stem from their association with free-living phagocytosing amoebae, ubiquitously present in nature. In parallel, the project will therefore also study the interaction of these bacteria with amoeba.

- activities:

• Host transcriptome (RNASeq) and qRT-PCR analyses to study changes in host response upon infection.
• Real time analysis using epi-fluorescence and confocal microscopy (including bacterial localization at the subcellular level, interaction with specific host cells using transgenic zebrafish lines). Analysis of macrophage polarisation will be performed during a secondment in the LPHI laboratory.
• Creation of mutants in specific bacterial determinants and analyse the impact of mutations on virulence and persistence traits, both in vitro and in vivo.
• Development of a new model for Achromobacter using the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum.
• Regular oral presentations at laboratory (VBIC and HSM) and network meetings. Poster and oral presentations at national and international meetings, networking, mandatory courses (doctoral school) etc. The student will acquire skills needed to perform independent research and pursue a successful career in science. These include technical, (inter)personal, management, and time management skills. Participation in University teaching may also be possible.
• Organisation of a meeting in the third year together with the other PhD students of the network. The Nexus network provides an opportunity to enhance collaborative skills and work in a transdisciplinary environment. A specific focus is given on inter- and trans disciplinarity through an additional common program.
• Writing a thesis manuscript, and a scientific publication following the rules of the doctoral school CBS2.

The gross monthly salary is €2,300

Contract duration: 3 years

Contract date from 01/10/2026 to30/09/2029

Where to apply

E-mail

Requirements

Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Education Level Master Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

• Strong background in bacteriology, immunology and molecular genetics, and experience working under biological safety level 2 conditions.
• Experience with the zebrafish embryo model, and proven skills in the technique of micro injection.
• Experience in microscopical techniques (epi-fluorescence, confocal), image analysis, and interpretation of in vivo data.
• Due to the international environment and publication in English, the student should be fluent in spoken and written English.
• Experience in molecular biological techniques (DNA cloning, mutagenesis, etc).
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary research environment, and in close collaboration with both PhD supervisors.
• Experience using Excel, Powerpoint, Graphpad Prism, imaging software, etc. Knowledge in statistics.
• Strong scientific writing skills.
• Good work ethics and organisational skills.
• Problem-solving ability, resilience, and ability to work to deadlines.
• High level of motivation, creativity, initiative, and curiosity.

Diploma/field required: Applicants should hold a Master 2 degree in biology and health, microbiology, biochemistry, or biomedical sciences. Master students that do not have the diploma yet should provide the most recent transcripts from their Master 1 and Master 2 (semester 1 and/or semester 2).

Additional Information

Selection process

The application must include the following

• A CV
• One or two letters of recommendation.
• A copy of the diploma required for enrolment or, if unavailable, the most recent transcripts from Master 2 (semester 1 and/or semester 2) and those of Master 1.