Functional Genomics of LCCL Postdoctoral Researcher at University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne – France

Summary

The ESCAPE Research Unit at the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA) in France is offering a two-year Postdoctoral Researcher position funded by Coefficient Giving (USA). The project focuses on the functional genomics of LCCL-domain proteins in Cryptosporidium to determine their role in parasite development and formation. Running from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2028, the role involves establishing targeted CRISPR screens, conducting phenotypic assays, and utilizing molecular and microscopy techniques to characterize genetically modified parasite lines. Applicants must hold a PhD in parasitology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology, or a related field, alongside strong experience in experimental cellular or molecular biology. The application deadline is not stated in the official advertisement.

Key Facts

Department	ESCAPE Research Unit
Position Type	Postdoctoral Researcher
Discipline	Biological Sciences
Research Area	Functional Genomics / Parasitology
Degree Required	PhD
Experience	Strong experience in experimental molecular or cellular biology.
Funding	Coefficient Giving (USA)
Contract Duration	2 years (01/01/2027 to 31/12/2028)
Language	English
Employer Address	Reims, Grand Est, France (51100)

About the Project

The research program aims to investigate the functional relevance of LCCL-domain proteins in Cryptosporidium using a targeted CRISPR-based functional screening strategy. It seeks to generate and analyze genetically modified parasite lines, establish phenotyping assays, prioritize candidate genes related to parasite development, and characterize the resulting phenotypes using molecular and microscopy-based techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and optimize a targeted CRISPR screen of LCCL-domain protein genes
• Generate and analyse genetically modified Cryptosporidium lines
• Develop robust phenotyping assays to identify candidate genes associated with parasite development
• Prioritize LCCL-domain proteins on the basis of genetic and phenotypic evidence
• Validate the most promising candidates through independent genetic perturbations
• Characterize the resulting phenotypes using molecular and microscopy-based approaches
• Investigate the localization and cellular context of selected LCCL-domain proteins
• Establish the first functional links between LCCL-domain proteins and parasite developmental processes
• Generate discovery data providing the foundation for subsequent mechanistic studies
• Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and future research proposals arising from the project

Required Skills

• PhD in parasitology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology or a related field
• Strong experience in experimental molecular or cellular biology
• Ability to design, perform and analyze experiments independently
• Good scientific writing and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment

Who Should Apply

Researchers holding a PhD in parasitology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology, or a related discipline with strong background in experimental cellular/molecular biology and an interest in parasite biology and functional genomics should apply.

About the Employer

The University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne is the 5th largest employer in the Champagne-Ardenne region, employing approximately 2,500 permanent staff across 6 campuses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is this post located?

The post is located at the ESCAPE Research Unit at the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne in Reims, Grand Est, France.

What educational degree is required to apply?

Applicants must hold a PhD in parasitology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology, or a related field.

Who is funding this research program?

The project is supported by Coefficient Giving (USA).