Tenure-track (junior professor) Position

Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology - Aix-Marseille University/CNRS 

 

  • RESEARCH FIELD(S)

Medical and Natural Sciences. The Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology (INP) supported by Aix-Marseille University and the CNRS combines basic and translational research in a stimulating and friendly working environment (https://inp.univ-amu.fr). We seek to attract a new outstanding scientist to explore new frontiers in Engineering and digital sciences for health, in particular for the development of novel imaging and therapeutic molecules to treat brain diseases. Indeed, there are many central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including neuro-oncological and neurodegenerative diseases. Their incidence is increasing with the ageing of the population, with considerable societal and economic costs and growing unmet medical needs. The development of effective therapies for these CNS diseases is severely hampered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which limits the delivery of most drugs, particularly biomolecules (peptides, siRNAs, antibodies), which nevertheless have real therapeutic potential due to their specificity of action. We are developing high throughput engineer and digital science strategies, deep mutational scanning and breakthrough technologies, to create modular "vector" molecules, based on peptides or antibody fragments designed to pass the BBB. These vectors can be conjugated to numerous diagnostic (imaging agents) and/or therapeutic agents, to promote their transport across the BBB and into the CNS and to implement innovative therapies. Candidates with the skills and a strong interest for developing such strategies are encouraged to apply.

 

  • JOB DESCRIPTION

The INP is looking for a researcher wishing to conduct innovative research by joining the BBB and Neuroinflammation team.

The programme first offers an attractive hosting environment that includes the project leader’s salary for 5 years (3 440 € minimum gross/month), and a starting package of 250 000 € total over 5 years. By integrating the INP and the BBB and Neuroinflammation team, the junior professor will also benefit from the technical support of engineers and researchers in charge of the technological platforms of the INP. During this 5 year period, the position includes teaching activity (up to 60 hrs per year) in addition to research. Following this initial phase, the successful candidate can benefit from a tenure track professor position at AMU to conduct his/her research and participate in teaching.

AMU supports diversity and equal opportunities. Women and candidates with disability are encouraged to apply and are assured of equal opportunity in the multi-stage selection process that will comply with French employment laws, AMU's commitment to the HRS4R, Euraxess good practice guidelines, and A*Midex requirements for excellence. Candidates will be informed at each stage of the selection process, which will last several months and will require at least two auditions for successful candidates.
 

  • QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS/EDUCATION & RESEARCH REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • PhD diploma.

  • Minimum 2 years of research/teaching experience after obtaining the PhD.

  • An excellent early-career publication record that meets the criteria for applying for European funding (e.g., ERC).

 

  • APPLICATION DEADLINE

Applications must be sent as a single PDF file by May 22nd 2023

 

  • STARTING DATE

The Junior professor Chair will start between November 2023 and January 2024.

 

  • JOB LOCATION

The INP is located on the Marseille Health Sciences campus, alongside other leading laboratories covering a wide range of neuroscience and medical topics. In addition, the INP offers an internationally competitive research environment in partnership with the biotechnology spin-off company Vect-Horus dedicated to the development of vector molecules to transport imaging agents and therapeutics across the BBB into the brain parenchyma. State-of-the-art technology facilities include super-resolution and HCS microscopy, an iPS cell platform, a biophysics platform for the study of molecular interactions, and a SPF rodent facility with space for surgery and animal behaviour studies. Other facilities available on campus include a virus production and use facility, MRI, PET, luminescence imaging.

The INP is a member of NeuroMarseille (https://neuro-marseille.org), the 2nd largest neuroscience community in France, and of NeuroSchool, the Graduate School of Neuroscience (https://neuro-marseille.org/en/training/), which offers scholarships to Master and PhD students. The INP is also part of the CIVIS European University (https://civis.eu/fr), thus favouring scientific and training synergies in an international environment.

Last but not least, the INP is located in the centre of Marseille, close to the Parc National des Calanques and the scenic and cultural charms of Provence, which perfectly complements the dynamism of Marseille and its region as a place to live and work in science.

 

  • REQUESTED DOCUMENTS OF APPLICATION

  • A complete CV and list of publications.

  • A cover letter describing past and current scientific activities/achievements (2 pages max).

  • A research project proposal (3 pages max).

  • Two letters of recommendation.

 

  • CONTACT TO APPLY

Applications must be sent as a single PDF file to Dr. Michel KHRESTCHATISKY .

Equipe de recherche: 
BBB and Neuroinflammation