PhD position OT-29155
Funded Ph.D. position : Genetic Determinants of the Typicity of Riesling and Gewurztraminer Wines
68000 - Colmar
INRAE presentation
The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE) is a major player in research and innovation. It is a community of 12,000 people with 272 research, experimental research, and support units located in 18 regional centres throughout France. Internationally, INRAE is among the top research organisations in the agricultural and food sciences, plant and animal sciences, as well as in ecology and environmental science. It is the world’s leading research organisation specialising in agriculture, food and the environment. INRAE’s goal is to be a key player in the transitions necessary to address major global challenges. Faced with a growing world population, climate change, resource scarcity, and declining biodiversity, the Institute has a major role to play in building solutions and supporting the necessary acceleration of agricultural, food and environmental transitions.
Work environment, missions and activities
You will join the UMR1131 research unit, “Vine Health and Wine Quality,” which brings together researchers and technicians from INRAE and the University of Strasbourg. The unit conducts research on fungal and viral vine diseases, which are among the most damaging to French vineyards. By understanding the interactions between the vine and its pests and the development of grape quality, researchers can propose innovative solutions that address the challenges of sustainable viticulture. (https://www6.colmar.inrae.fr/svqv/).
Summary:
Wine typicity refers to its ability to reflect its grape variety and terroir through its organoleptic characteristics. It depends in part on molecules synthesized in the grape based on the variety’s genetic makeup. Although research has identified certain genes responsible for the production of aromatic molecules in grapes, the genetic determinants of wine typicity remain largely unknown. In this context, the objective of this thesis project is to characterize the molecular and genetic determinants of the typicity of Riesling (Ri) and Gewurztraminer (Gw) wines, using a genetic analysis strategy applied directly to the wine’s composition.
Thesis Objectives (Funding: INRAE-Grand Est Region Ph.D. Fellowship)
With the aim of better understanding the genetic basis of wine typicity, the doctoral student will therefore seek to answer the following research question: What are the molecular and genetic determinants of the typicity of Ri and Gw wines? More specifically, he or she will examine the following two questions: 1. What molecules are associated with the typicity of Ri and Gw wines? 2. What genetic factors determine the biosynthesis of these molecules associated with typicity?
Details of the project are available on the website of the Strasbourg Doctoral School of Life and Health Sciences via the following link: https://amethis3.unistra.fr/amethis-client/prd/consulter/offre/1133
Skills acquired during the thesis:
• Analysis of metabolomic data
• Quantitative genetics and QTL mapping
• Functional validation of candidate genes
The unit has the infrastructure (mass spectrometry analysis platform, computing server) and expertise to conduct integrative studies combining metabolomics and genetics for the identification and functional validation of genes involved in plant metabolism.
Training and skills
- Recommended education: Master’s degree in plant science, genetics, or biochemistry
- Strong background in plant biology and biochemistry, with knowledge of genetics. Strong background in statistics. Proficiency in scientific English.
- Desirable experience: Interest in plant chemistry and analytical chemistry methods (chromatography and mass spectrometry).
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
All persons employed by or hosted at INRAE, a public research establishment, are subject to the Civil Service Code, particularly with regard to the obligation of neutrality and respect for the principle of secularism. In carrying out their functions, whether or not they are in contact with the public, they must not express their religious, philosophical or political convictions through their behaviour or by what they wear. > Find out more: fonction publique.gouv.fr website (in French)