Explore a unique PhD opportunity to investigate food contaminants and their impact on host–microbiota interactions. Funded 3-year position with training in mass spectrometry, omics, and toxicology. Dual-location research collaboration. Apply for Fall 2025.
💡 PhD Opportunity: Investigating the Impact of Food Contaminants on Host–Microbiota Interactions
The interplay between food contaminants and microbiota is a field of growing interest in health and toxicology. At ProMetHEE and Li2D–ProGénoMix, we are thrilled to offer a PhD opportunity that aims to unravel how food contaminants impact host-microbiota interactions. This interdisciplinary research, named FoodMaP, will leverage cutting-edge techniques in metaproteomics, mass spectrometry, microbiota profiling, and toxicology to explore the molecular mechanisms at the intersection of diet and human health.
🌟 Why This PhD Opportunity Is Unique
-
Interdisciplinary Research: This project integrates microbiology, biotechnology, toxicology, omics technologies, and bioinformatics.
-
Dual-location Experience: You will gain experience at ProMetHEE (ANSES, Fougères) and Li2D–ProGénoMix (CEA, Bagnols-sur-Cèze), benefiting from access to leading researchers and advanced technology platforms.
-
Training in Cutting-edge Techniques: You will be trained in mass spectrometry, microbiota profiling, and toxicology, which are essential tools for exploring complex host-microbiota interactions.
-
Global Research Collaboration: The project allows you to collaborate with top experts in the field, attend international conferences, and expand your research network.
🧠 Key Responsibilities of the PhD Researcher
This PhD project will focus on the impact of food contaminants on host–microbiota interactions, utilizing metaproteomics to understand the molecular underpinnings of how foodborne toxins influence gut microbiota composition and their broader health implications.
Research Areas:
-
Food Contaminants Impact: Study the influence of contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and food additives on microbiota balance.
-
Host–Microbiota Interactions: Examine how food contaminants alter microbiome-host interactions and affect physiological functions such as immune response, metabolism, and disease susceptibility.
-
In vitro and Animal Models: Use in vitro models and mouse models to simulate and investigate the mechanisms at the cellular and organismal levels.
-
Omics and Bioinformatics: Utilize omics technologies and bioinformatics tools to analyze large-scale data sets and identify biomarkers of food contamination.
Training & Skills Development:
-
Hands-on Experience: Learn state-of-the-art techniques in mass spectrometry, proteomics, metagenomics, and bioinformatics.
-
Cross-disciplinary Knowledge: Develop a strong foundation in microbiota research, toxicology, and metabolism, which will provide expertise across multiple scientific disciplines.
-
Conference Presentations: Present your research findings at international conferences and research networks, gaining exposure to the global scientific community.
🧑🔬 Are You the Right Fit for This PhD Opportunity?
We are looking for a highly motivated, curious, and collaborative individual who is passionate about understanding the complex relationship between food contaminants and human health. If you possess a background in microbiology, biotechnology, toxicology, or related fields and are enthusiastic about learning new skills in omics technologies and bioinformatics, we want to hear from you.
Eligibility Criteria:
-
Degree: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in microbiology, biotechnology, toxicology, or related fields.
-
Skills and Experience: Familiarity with omics technologies and bioinformatics is advantageous, though we welcome candidates eager to learn these tools.
-
Personal Traits: You should be curious, proactive, and collaborative, with a keen interest in interdisciplinary research.
-
Location Flexibility: The position involves working at two locations, Fougères (ANSES) and Bagnols-sur-Cèze (CEA), so you should be comfortable with this dual-location arrangement.
🏆 What’s in It for You?
This is more than just a research project; it’s an opportunity for growth in a dynamic scientific community. The successful candidate will enjoy the following benefits:
Comprehensive Training:
You will receive hands-on training in the latest technologies, including mass spectrometry, microbiota profiling, and toxicology, that will significantly enhance your scientific expertise.
Collaborative Environment:
Join a team of experts in host-microbiota research, omics technologies, and bioinformatics at two prestigious research institutions: ProMetHEE and Li2D–ProGénoMix.
Research Impact:
Your work will contribute to an exciting and relevant area of research that could inform public health and safety, especially in the context of food safety and microbiota health.
Funding and Duration:
-
3-year funded position
-
Dual-location project in Fougères and Bagnols-sur-Cèze, with the flexibility to work across both locations
-
The position starts in Fall 2025.
🌍 About the Hosting Institutions
ProMetHEE (ANSES, Fougères):
ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental, and Occupational Health Safety) is a leader in research focused on food safety, toxicology, and environmental health. ProMetHEE is an advanced research platform that specializes in high-throughput metaproteomics and microbiome analysis.
Li2D–ProGénoMix (CEA, Bagnols-sur-Cèze):
The CEA (French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission) is a world-renowned research organization. Li2D–ProGénoMix focuses on bioinformatics, omics technologies, and their applications to health, particularly in microbiota and disease research.
📅 Application Details & How to Apply
The PhD position is set to begin in Fall 2025, and we are now accepting applications. To apply for this exciting opportunity, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest in the project to:
-
Contact Email:
📧 thibaut.leger@anses.fr
📧 lucia.grenga@cea.fr
For any additional questions or information about the project, feel free to reach out to the contact emails above.
📣 Spread the Word!
If you know someone who fits this profile, share this PhD opportunity! This research is a fantastic career start for any passionate scientist eager to explore the interface of food safety, microbiota, and human health.
This PhD opportunity at ProMetHEE and Li2D–ProGénoMix offers an exciting avenue for research in the critical area of food contaminants and microbiota health. With advanced training in cutting-edge technologies, you will be at the forefront of an interdisciplinary field that holds great potential for both academic and real-world applications.
