Information
The Mouse Genetics Laboratory is recruiting a post-doctoral researcher to study the role of host genetic determinants in the susceptibility to neurological consequences of Zika virus infection in mouse models.
Our research focuses on understanding how genetic variation influences susceptibility to viral diseases caused by Zika virus and SARS-CoV-2, identifying the genes underlying phenotypic variations and deciphering the mechanisms involved in resistance or susceptibility. The project is based on our previous identification of mouse strains that develop mild or severe neuroinflammation following Zika virus infection, and aims at characterising neurological alterations after infection at young or adult age, or in utero. It will combine behavioural and neurological exploration of infected mice and genetic analysis using a collection of mouse strains with genetic diversity similar to that of the human population. The ultimate goal is to identify host genes and mechanisms that drive susceptibility to neurological complications of Zika virus infection, a matter of public health importance.
The project will be carried out in the Mouse Genetics Laboratory, affiliated to the Genomes and Genetics and to the Virology Departments of the Institut Pasteur. MGL has extensive expertise in viral infections and genetic analysis in mice, in collaboration with teams of the Virology and Immunology Departments. Candidates will benefit from the cutting-edge technological platforms, in particular BSL-3 facilities.
Starting immediately, the appointment will be made for 2 years. Salary will be commensurate to previous experience and according to Institut Pasteur standards.
Requirements
Successful candidates (with PhD degree) must have conceptual and experimental expertise in mouse models and analysis of neurological and behavioural traits.
Knowledge of mouse genetics, experience with mouse models of infection and manipulation of infectious agents in BSL-3 environment, and programming in R will be appreciated. We are looking for strongly motivated and highly collaborative candidates having good communication skills in English and a sense of team spirit.
One first author publication is mandatory, including preprints.
How to apply
Applications should be submitted before April 1st, 2023, to xavier.montagutelli@pasteur.fr and include:
- a cover letter describing your interest in the position
- a detailed CV
- a brief (1 page) description of your previous research
- publications list
- Contact details of at least two referees.
Useful links
The team: https://research.pasteur.fr/fr/team/mouse-genetics/
Relevant papers from the team include: Manet C et al., 2022, Lazarini F et al., 2022, Aubry F et al., 2021