Open Postdoc Position in cell imaging and cryoCLEM studies on Chikungunya infection
They are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the CHIKO project, an ERC Advanced Grant, in a dynamic and cutting-edge research environment. The successful candidate will lead efforts in in situ structural characterisation of viral replication complexes and alphagranules in infected cells.
Why Join the team?
This is a unique opportunity to:
✅ Contribute to groundbreaking research in cellular virology.
✅ Access first-hand facilities such as PBSIM (Marseille), Cryo-EM at Madrid CNB, ESRF, SOLEIL, and the CRCM proteomics facility.
✅ Collaborate with leading experts in virology, structural biology, and interactomics.
✅ Publish high-impact research and advance your career in a multidisciplinary team.
Key goals
• Tracking Early and late events on the Replication Complex evolution
o Use correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) to capture specific replication events in infected cells.
o Develop and utilize binders for specific tracking of replication complexes at different conformations and their interactions with host factors.
• Tomographic Reconstructions
o Perform cryo-electron tomography to visualize replication complexes and alphagranules in their native cellular context.
o Use FIB-SEM milling to prepare samples for high-resolution imaging.
• Functional Validation
o Analyze the localization and function of replication complexes in infected cells
Required Qualifications
• PhD in Cell Biology, Structural Biology, Virology, or a related field (required).
• Experience in electron microscopy (e.g., Cryo-EM, CLEM, or tomography) is highly desirable.
• Strong background in cell biology and virology.
• Familiarity with image processing software (e.g., IMOD, Dynamo, RELION) is a plus.
Soft Skills
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong communication skills (English required).
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their application to
juan.reguera@univ-amu.fr with the subject line: "CHIKO-PD3-Application". Please include:
1. CV (including publication list).
2. Cover letter describing:
o Your research interests and relevance to CHIKO.
o How your experience in cell biology, microscopy, or related fields can make a difference.
o Your career goals.
3. Contact information for 2-3 references.
Deadline and Start Date
• Deadline: Open until filled
• Potential Start Date: January 2027
