Junior research scientist on the study of viral structures and liquid-liquid phase separations formed during infection by influenza viruses

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INRAE presentation

INRAE, the French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment, is a public research organization bringing together 12,000 employees across 272 units in 18 centers across France. As the world’s leading institute specializing in agriculture, food, and the environment, INRAE plays a key role in supporting the necessary transitions to address global challenges.

Faced with population growth, food security challenges, climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss, INRAE is committed to developing scientific solutions and supporting the evolution of agricultural, food, and environmental practices.

INRAE is recruiting researchers by open competition and offering permanent position.

Work environment, missions and activities

You will join Joint Research Unit 0892 Virology and Molecular Immunology (VIM), which studies host responses to animal pathogens that have a significant impact on both agro-economics and public health. Within this unit, you will contribute to the development of innovative strategies to control infections according to a One Health approach. As part of the 'Flu' team, which specializes in the study of influenza A virus, you will help strengthen our expertise in a key research area. Since its creation in 2006, the team has developed three main research themes: host-pathogen interactions, influenza virus virulence factors, and the development of antiviral and vaccine strategies. Your work will focus on molecular host-virus interactions, employing multidisciplinary approaches to investigate the mechanisms of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in the context of viral infections. Phase separation within cells is a physicochemical process where macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids, self-organize through phase separation, forming membraneless compartments. These processes are crucial in the context of viral infections as they contribute to the formation of "viral factories"—structures where viral components assemble to facilitate virus replication. LLPS plays a pivotal role by altering the dynamics of host-virus interactions and optimizing key processes essential to viral replication. With access to our state-of-the-art biological containment facilities (BSL3, BSL2 and A2 animal facility for rodents), you will conduct advanced experiments to decipher the virus's pathogenesis in various cell and animal models. You will benefit from the team’s extensive collaborative network, including the 'Resaflu' GDR and partners such as Toulouse Veterinary School, INRAE in Tours, and ANSES in Ploufragan, providing privileged access to avian influenza resources. In collaboration with the SOLEIL synchrotron, you will implement cutting-edge technologies such as soft X-ray cryotomography, SAXS, high-resolution cryo-fluorescence microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy, and FIB-SEM microscopy. These techniques will allow you to explore the impact of viral infections in an innovative and integrated manner. By combining interdisciplinary expertise with strong partnerships, you will play a key role in our understanding of influenza virus mechanisms and contribute to the development of effective solutions for the prevention and control of this public health threat.

The research scientist position will require working in a restricted access zone (ZRR), which necessitates an access authorization request. Experiments may take place during off-hours and potentially at locations distant from the main laboratory, requiring a driver's license.

Training and skills

Competition open to candidates with a PhD (or equivalent). The candidate must hold a PhD in virology. Certification in animal experimentation and training for work in confined environments would be desirable. Proficiency in molecular biology techniques and methods, a sound knowledge of biochemistry and virology, as well as expertise in imaging techniques and data processing are recommended. Candidates should have a good command of English (both written and spoken), and long-term international experience would also be desirable. Successful candidates who have not yet acquired this experience abroad will be required to do so after their probationary period (1st year).

INRAE's life quality

By joining our teams, you benefit from:

- 30 days of annual leave + 15 days "Reduction of Working Time" (for a full time);
- parenting support: CESU childcare, leisure services;
- skills development systems: training, career advise;
- social support: advice and listening, social assistance and loans;
- holiday and leisure services: holiday vouchers, accommodation at preferential rates;
- sports and cultural activities;
- collective catering.

For international scientists: please visit your guide to facilitate your arrival and stay at INRAE. 

How to apply

1. I download the applicant guide Application guidelines CRCN 2025 pdf - 3.93 MB
2. I write down the profile number CR-2025-SA-2
3. I apply GO