Postdoctoral Position in Avian Influenza Virus Evolution and Transmission in Live Bird Market Networks at INRAE – France

Summary

The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE) seeks a postdoctoral researcher to study avian influenza virus evolution in Cambodian live bird markets. The role, based in Toulouse, involves phylodynamic and computational analysis of whole‑genome sequences linked to detailed epidemiological data from the TrackFLU project, which is funded by an ERC Starting Grant. The candidate will identify drivers of viral co‑circulation and reassortment, collaborate with international partners, and present findings at conferences. The 24‑month contract offers a gross monthly salary of €3,000‑€3,500, generous leave, childcare support, training, and other benefits. Applications close on 25 October 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Host-Pathogens Interactions (IHAP) research unit at INRAE
Position Type	Postdoctoral
Discipline	Disease evolution, epidemiology
Research Area	Avian influenza virus evolution and transmission in live bird market networks
Degree Required	PhD degree
Experience	Prior experience with phylodynamic analyses
Salary	Between €3,000 and €3,500 gross monthly (according to experience)
Funding	ERC Starting Grant (TrackFLU project)
Contract Duration	24 months
Language	English
Deadline	2026-10-25
Employer Address	31076 Toulouse, France
Employer Contact	Claire Guinat, [email protected]

About the Project

The TrackFLU project monitors 20 poultry sites in Cambodia, including live bird markets, farms and slaughterhouses, collecting longitudinal data on production, trade, biosecurity and avian influenza virus samples. The project generates whole‑genome sequences of the viruses, enabling phylodynamic analyses to link viral evolution and transmission with ecological and epidemiological contexts. The postdoctoral researcher will analyze these data to uncover factors driving viral co‑circulation, reassortment and spread within market networks.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse whole‑genome sequences using phylodynamic and computational methods
• Integrate longitudinal practices data with genomic data
• Identify factors associated with viral co‑circulation and reassortments
• Prepare and present research findings at international conferences
• Collaborate with partners in Cambodia, Institut Pasteur, ETH Zürich and others

Required Skills

• PhD in disease evolution, epidemiology or related discipline
• Prior experience with phylodynamic analyses
• Ability to work with genomic and epidemiological data
• Strong analytical and scientific writing skills
• Organizational skills and ability to work independently
• Proficiency in English writing and presentation

Who Should Apply

Applicants who hold a PhD in disease evolution, epidemiology or a related field and have prior experience with phylodynamic analyses, strong analytical and scientific writing skills, and proficiency in English.

Benefits

• Up to 30 days annual leave plus 15 days reduction of working time
• Parenting support: CESU childcare, leisure services
• Training, career advice and skills development systems
• Social support, advice, loans and assistance
• Holiday vouchers and preferential accommodation rates
• Sports, cultural activities and collective catering

About the Employer

INRAE is France’s national research institute for agriculture, food and environment, employing around 12,000 staff across 272 research and support units. It ranks among the top global organisations in agricultural, plant, animal, ecological and environmental sciences and aims to address major global challenges through research and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 25 October 2026.

What documents must be submitted?

A CV, a short motivation letter (max 1 page) and two reference letters.

What is the salary range?

The gross monthly salary is between €3,000 and €3,500, depending on experience.

Is French language required?

Proficiency in French is not required; English proficiency is essential.