A post-doctoral position is available in the “Biology of Gram-positive Pathogens” Unit led by Prof. Patrick Trieu-Cuot in the Microbiology Department of the Institut Pasteur (Paris, France). The project is funded by the “Fondation de la Recherche Médicale” (FRM) and the position is initially for one year, starting early 2019, with the possibility of a 2-year extension.

Our Research Unit works mainly on Streptococcus agalactiae [Group B Streptococcus (GBS)], the leading cause of bacterial invasive infection in neonates. Our global project is aimed at discovering the main determinants of the commensal and pathogenic lifestyles of GBS with the following key questions: What are the main GBS virulence factors? How does GBS resist and manipulate host immune defences? How does GBS adapt its metabolism and genetic programs during colonization and invasive diseases? By answering these fundamental questions, we contribute to the development of innovative diagnosis tools and/or preventive strategies against GBS infections.

Project: The project is focus on cyclic di-AMP (c-di-AMP), a specific bacterial nucleotide which is both necessary for GBS growth and an agonist of the inflammatory response during infections (Andrade WA, et al. Cell Host Microbe. 2016;20(1):49-59; Devaux L, et al. Curr Opin Microbiol. 2018;41:21-8; Devaux et al, PLoS Genet. 2018;14(4):e1007342). The project is to characterize the function and regulation of this essential signalling molecule in GBS and to decipher the role of c-di-AMP in the host innate response to pathogens.

Requirements: The ideal candidate would have a PhD in Microbiology with a strong background in bacterial genetics and molecular biology. Experiences in biochemistry, NGS analyses or innate immune signaling are assets. High motivation, English proficiency, excellent communication skills and ability to work independently as well collaboratively are essential.

Application: Applicants should send a motivation letter including a brief statement of research experience, a full CV, a list of publication and contact details of three referees to Patrick Trieu-Cuot and Arnaud Firon (patrick.trieu-cuot@pasteur.fr,   arnaud.firon@pasteur.fr).