Postdoctoral position OT-27392
Postdoctoral Scientist in plant metal homeostasis
06903 Sophia Antipolis
INRAE presentation
The Institut Sophia Agrobiotech is an international research institute funded by INRAE, Université Côte d'Azur and CNRS. Situated at the interface of Environment and Agriculture, the main research topics concern the study of plant-interactions, pathogens and symbionts and their dynamics in time and space. The Plant-Nematode Interactions team is composed of about 20 persons and aims to build a solid scientific foundation for understanding the complex relationship between plants and nematodes, working across different scales of study—from the gene to the field. This knowledge serves as a basis for developing innovative, specific, sustainable, and environmentally friendly control strategies. The research focuses on both partners in the interaction: the plant, by examining disease development (susceptibility) and mechanisms of resistance, and the nematode, by analyzing its pathogenicity and its ability to adapt and evolve.
Work environment, missions and activities
Project Summary
- Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are microscopic plant parasitic worms. These major crop pests, cause billions in losses worldwide. Within host roots, these crop pests reprogram root cells to form specialized feeding structures (giant cells within root galls).
- In a recent study (Noureddine et al. 2023), we described the induction of plant microRNAs in galls, triggered by reduced copper levels, and observed that plants watered with a non-toxic copper sulfate solution showed lower susceptibility to RKN. Additionally, preliminary results in Arabidopsis and tomato revealed a decrease in copper content in galls compared to non-infected roots. These findings suggest that RKN infection is associated with reduced cellular copper levels in galls.
- The copper-responsive microRNAs induced in galls repress the expression of genes encoding non-essential copper-binding proteins. Such proteins, including uclacyanins and laccases, are required for lignin deposition in root tissues like within the Casparian strip. Within the gall , the Casparian strip initially surrounds the feeding site but is then degraded. The nematode feeding site serves as a novel model to study copper’s role in cell wall remodeling, Casparian strip dynamics, and tissue reorganization.
The post-doc project aims to decipher these processes using elemental imaging (XRF), omics, reverse genetics, and cell biology by combining expertise in nematology, metal homeostasis, and endoderm/cell wall biology.
Training and skills
We are seeking a motivated researcher to join the IPN team (Plant Nematode Interaction) developing this ANR project. The candidate should have solid expertise in plant metal homeostasis, including skills in genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and/or transcriptomics. Experience in plant-microbe interactions and/or plant development would also be appreciated.
INRAE's life quality
By joining our teams, you benefit from (depending on the type of contract and its duration):
- up to 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.
How to apply
I send my CV and my motivation letter
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