Postdoctoral Researcher Mechanobiology of Meningococcal Infection
Location: Institut Jacques Monod, Paris
Team: Quantitative Biology of Bacterial Infections (PI: Daria Bonazzi)
Funding: ERC Starting Grant
Duration: 24 months
Apply on the CNRS job portal before June 23
Project Overview:
The project explores how Neisseria meningitidis manipulates host cell mechanics during vascular infection. The focus is on understanding the mechanical forces at play—especially via type-IV pili—and their impact on host cell behavior, mechanotransduction, and barrier integrity. The research uses bacterial infection as a tool to probe and perturb cell mechanics, with broader implications for understanding tissue homeostasis. We are looking for a talented researcher willing to dig into the forces at play at the host/pathogen interface.
Key Techniques:
- Cell biology/Microbiology/Molecular biology
- High-resolution live imaging
- Traction force microscopy
- Microfabrication and microfluidics
- FLIM-FRET, SIM, STORM
- Image analysis and biophysical modeling
Candidate Requirements:
A good expertise in the fields of cell biology, biophysics and/or microbiology is required. Prior experience with force measurement methods and image analysis will be a strong plus. The candidate should have a PhD degree in biophysics or equivalent with a good publication record.
The ability to interact with scientists across multiple labs specialized in quantitative imaging, biophysics and infectious diseases will be key to succeed in this project.
Application
Please send a CV, a cover letter, a research statement summarizing previous work experience and research interests, and contact information of two references to Daria Bonazzi (daria.bonazzi@ijm.fr).