Postdoctoral researcher position in project aimed at understanding how tumorigenesis affects energy expenditure and allocation at the whole-organism level in vivo

Our laboratory studies the fundamental processes that govern cellular and organismal energetics and their impact on animal physiology. We have recently developed
quantitative approaches to measure energy allocation at the whole-embryo level and its evolution as a function of ploidy during development (Cadart et al., Current Biology, 2023).

This project is part of a new collaboration with Professor Goldwasser’s team (Cochin Hospital), which specializes in the study of cancer metabolism in a
clinical context (Boudou-Rouquette et al., EBioMedicine, 2021; Tiako et al., Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 2024).
The aim of this project is to establish Xenopus tadpoles as a quantitative whole-organism model to analyze the impact of tumor growth on energy production, consumption, and allocation. The project relies on the development and integration of original experimental approaches, including the manipulation of Xenopus embryos,
in vivo imaging of cellular metabolism using FLIM, direct calorimetry measurements, and quantitative analyses linked to clinical metabolic data.

The project involves the development of new experimental strategies. It is intended for a candidate who demonstrates autonomy, scientific rigor, and an interest in interdisciplinary approaches. The work environment is interactive and collaborative, with close links to clinical research.

Main Activities:

Actively contribute to the development of the project’s conceptual framework and hypotheses, based on literature review and scientific exchanges with the two partner teams.
Define and implement a coherent set of biological techniques, imaging, and quantitative analyses necessary for the project’s completion.
Set up, optimize, and conduct experiments (handling of Xenopus embryos, in vivo metabolic imaging, calorimetric measurements).
Process, analyze, interpret, and validate experimental data.
Ensure the dissemination, promotion, and communication of the project’s scientific results.
Contribute to regulatory processes related to animal experimentation and the use of GMOs.
Participate in the preparation of applications for postdoctoral and/or supplementary funding.
Contribute to the writing and publication of scientific articles based on the project results.

Environment:

The postdoctoral researcher will join a young and dynamic team engaged in ambitious interdisciplinary research. The work environment fosters scientific exchange, collaboration with a clinical team, autonomy, and creativity within an inclusive and stimulating framework.

Skills Ability

to analyze scientific literature and formulate original research hypotheses
Ability to develop, optimize, and adapt new experimental protocols
Ability to design and conduct experiments independently
Development of scientific and technological expertise in an interdisciplinary context
Writing of scientific documents (articles, reports, grant applications)
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Aptitudes:

Analytical reasoning and critical thinking
Organizational and planning skills
Enjoyment of collaborative work and scientific interaction
Autonomy, scientific curiosity, and perseverance in exploratory projects

Required Experience:

You hold a PhD in a relevant field (cancer biology, metabolism, developmental biology).

Degree:

PhD