PhD Researcher in Extrachromosomal DNA Dynamics and Cellular Rejuvenation in Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire (BSC, CNRS) – France

Summary

The position is a 36‑month fixed‑term PhD project at the Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire (BSC, UMR 7242), a joint CNRS‑University of Strasbourg unit in Illkirch‑Graffenstaden, France. Funded by the ANR REJUVENATE project, the research investigates how extrachromosomal DNA dynamics affect cellular rejuvenation in budding yeast, combining yeast genetics, microfluidics, quantitative fluorescence microscopy, image analysis, and quantitative modeling. The candidate will conduct long‑term microfluidic experiments, generate and track ecDNA, measure replicative lifespan, and integrate data through statistical inference. A master’s degree (or equivalent) is required, and the role offers a gross monthly salary of €2,300, generous leave, transport reimbursements, remote‑work options, and CNRS social benefits.

Key Facts

Department	Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire (BSC, UMR 7242), CNRS and University of Strasbourg
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Cell Biology, Genetics, Quantitative Microscopy, Biophysics
Research Area	Cell Biology, Genetics, Quantitative Microscopy, Biophysics
Degree Required	Master's degree (or equivalent)
Salary	€2,300 gross monthly
Funding	ANR REJUVENATE project funding
Contract Duration	Fixed-term, 36 months, full-time
Deadline	2026-10-29

About the Project

The PhD project will explore how extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) dynamics influence the loss of daughter‑cell rejuvenation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. By creating inducible ecDNA circles, performing microfluidic time‑lapse microscopy, and applying quantitative image analysis and statistical modeling, the research aims to determine whether transmission of ecDNA from aged mother cells drives chromosomal instability and impacts replicative lifespan.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform long‑term microfluidic experiments and live‑cell fluorescence microscopy
• Implement yeast genetic approaches and inducible systems for ecDNA formation
• Quantify formation, amplification, retention, and transmission of ecDNA
• Measure daughter‑cell rejuvenation and replicative lifespan
• Characterize chromosome segregation using imaging and genomic analyses
• Develop automated image‑analysis and cell‑lineage tracking methods
• Integrate experimental data through statistical analysis and quantitative modeling
• Disseminate results via thesis, conferences, and peer‑reviewed articles

Required Skills

• Yeast genetics and molecular biology techniques
• Microfluidics and live‑cell fluorescence microscopy
• Quantitative image analysis and cell‑lineage tracking
• Statistical analysis and probabilistic inference
• Mathematical and computational modeling
• Laboratory safety and handling of yeast strains

Who Should Apply

Candidates holding a master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, with strong interest in cell biology, genetics, quantitative microscopy, and biophysics, and willing to perform on‑site experimental work with yeast and fluorescence microscopy.

Benefits

• Gross monthly salary of €2,300
• 44 days of annual leave and RTT
• Public transport costs reimbursed at 75% plus up to €300 mobility allowance
• Remote‑working practice and compensation
• Dedicated workstation and project equipment
• CNRS social benefits

About the Employer

The position is hosted by Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire (BSC, UMR 7242), a joint research unit of CNRS and the University of Strasbourg. The unit comprises more than 50 full‑time equivalent staff and is located on the Illkirch‑Graffenstaden campus, conducting interdisciplinary research at the interface of functional genomics and biological chemistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is October 29, 2026.

What is the monthly salary?

The gross monthly salary is €2,300.

How can I apply?

Submit your application through the CNRS Employment Portal (reference UMR7242-GILCHA-001).

What is the contract length?

The contract is fixed‑term for 36 months, full‑time.

Is the position open to disabled workers?

Yes, the offer is open to people with a document recognizing disabled status.