University: French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA)
Country: France
Deadline:
Fields: Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Clinical Research
Are you passionate about unraveling the mysteries of the human microbiome and eager to contribute to innovative research that could transform the management of cystic fibrosis? If you aspire to make a tangible impact on human health through cutting‑edge multi‑omics research and international collaboration, this PhD opportunity at the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) may be the adecuado next step for your academic journey.
About the Institution
The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is a world‑renowned public research institution headquartered in France, recognized for its leadership in technological innovation and scientific excellence. With a robust presence across multiple campuses, CEA is at the forefront of fundamental and applied research in fields ranging from energy and defence to health and environmental sciences. Its fundamental research division plays a pivotal role in advancing human health and personalised medicine, fostering a collaborative academic environment that bridges basic science and translational applications.
Within CEA, the Laboratory “Innovative technologies for Detection and Diagnostics” (Li2D) at CEA Marcoule in Bagnols‑sur‑Cèze stands out for its pioneering work in detection and diagnostics. The Li2D hosts the ProGénoMix platform, a state‑of‑the‑art mass spectrometry facility specialising in proteomics, metaproteomics, and multi‑omics. This unique infrastructure supports integrated workflows, from sample processing to advanced data interpretation, and enables the development of new methodologies for pathogen identification and microbiota characterization. As a PhD student at CEA, you will benefit from a dynamic, international research community and access to outstanding training and professional development opportunities.
Research Topic and Significance
This PhD position is embedded within the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Doctoral Network METAMIC 3, an ambitious European Commission‑funded project aimed at advancing microbiome science through metaproteomics. The specific focus of your research will be on the “Long‑term dynamics of the CF microbiota during CFTR modulator therapy.”
- Europe – Technical Assistant in Translational Lung Fibrosis at Justus Liebig University Giessen
- Germany – PhD in Behavioural Economics at Max Planck Institute
- United Kingdom – PhD in Brain‑Machine Interfaces at University of Southampton
- Belgium – PhD in Operations Research at Ghent University & KU Leuven
- Canada – Fully Funded PhD in Parkinson’s Disease at University of Waterloo
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life‑limiting genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. Recent advances in CFTR modulator therapies have revolutionised the treatment landscape, yet the long‑term effects of these therapies on the airway microbiome remain poorly understood. The airway microbiome plays a crucial role in mediating infections and inflammation in CF patients, and elucidating its dynamics under modulator therapy could open new avenues for targeted interventions and improved patient outcomes.
Your research will involve integrating functional microbiome profiles with clinical data to map changes in the airway microbiota over time and identify key effectors that mediate pathogen‑commensal interactions. The ultimate goal is to uncover biomarkers or therapeutic targets that could be leveraged to better manage airway infections and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with CF. The project is highly relevant in today’s context, where personalised medicine and microbiome‑based diagnostics are rapidly gaining prominence in clinical practice.
Project Details
As a doctoral candidate, you will join the Li2D laboratory at CEA Marcoule, working within the ProGénoMix group. This group is dedicated to developing advanced mass spectrometry‑based approaches for microbiome characterization and pathogen detection. The project is part of the larger METAMIC 3 network, which brings together leading experts from academia, industry and the public sector to address One Health challenges through interdisciplinary research and training.
You will have the opportunity to participate in two international secondments:
- Three months in Professor P. Wilmes’ lab in Luxembourg, focusing on functional annotation and the exploration of proteins with unknown functions.
- Four months at the Centre de Ressource et de Compétence de la Mucoviscidose in France, where you will gain hands‑on experience in CF clinical research, sampling, and the application of CFTR modulator therapies.
Throughout your PhD, you will be responsible for independently planning and executing experiments, maintaining rigorous documentation, analysing complex research data, and presenting your findings at international conferences and in peer‑reviewed journals. The METAMIC 3 network offers a unique training environment that combines expertise in molecular biology, bioinformatics, clinical research and environmental science, ensuring comprehensive scientific development and professional growth.
Candidate Profile
Requirements
- A master’s, diploma or equivalent degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular medicine or a closely related field (must be obtained before the contract start date).
- Experience in protein biochemistry, microbiome research or molecular biology.
- A strong interest in clinical microbiome research and translational science.
- Excellent teamwork skills and the ability to thrive in an interdisciplinary, international environment.
- Proficiency in scientific English (both written and spoken).
- Willingness to spend several months at partner institutions abroad as part of the project’s secondments.
- Must not already possess a doctoral degree (PhD).
- Must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment (in accordance with Marie Skłodowska‑Curie mobility rules).
Application Process
To Apply, Candidates Should Prepare The Following Documents
- An extended curriculum vitae with a full publication list.
- A cover letter.
- Copies of diplomas.
- A two‑page research statement clearly describing your research profile, interests in the position and methodological expertise.
- Names and contact information of two references, if available.
Applications should be submitted quoting “DC05” in the subject header. Please refer to the official advertisement for application details. The closing date for applications is 23/09/2026. Early application is highly encouraged, as applications will be processed upon reception. The anticipated start date for the position is 01/04/2026.
Conclusion
This PhD position at the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) offers a unique opportunity to engage in high‑impact microbiome research within an internationally recognised training network. If you are eager to advance your scientific career in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment and make a real difference in the field of human health, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
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