AstraZenecka-funded post-doctoral position in the Bronchial Remodeling team from the Cardiothoracic Research Centre of Bordeaux (CRCTB) INSERM U1045, Bordeaux

Our group is looking to hire a postdoctoral fellow for an exciting project aiming at understanding the interaction between the bronchial epithelium and its environment in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

ABOUT THE POSITION AND PROJECT

This postdoctoral position is funded for 1.5 years, with possible extension of the funding for 1 additional year. It is supported by an unrestricted grant from AstraZenecka (PI: Pr Patrick Berger). The post-doctoral applicant will be strongly encouraged to postulate to permanent researcher position at the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health disease (i.e., 3rd cause of death worldwide) characterized by persistent airflow limitation. The post-doctoral fellow will: (i) investigate the role of the alarmin TSLP in the interplay between the epithelium and immune cells such as CD8+ T cells and fibrocytes, (ii) evaluate the efficacy of innovative curative RNA drugs, that could counteract bronchial remodelling and chronic inflammation. Established collaboration with the group of Jeanne Leblond Chain (INSERM U1212) will allow improving siRNA delivery to bronchial epithelial cells.

This project is intrinsically interdisciplinary, and relies on basic and translational approaches together with a combination of advanced cell imaging and innovative chemistry for siRNA delivery to originally decipher essential and novel mechanisms governing COPD pathophysiology. The post-doctoral fellow will drive the project with supervision and mentoring from group leader Isabelle Dupin and team leader Patrick Berger, designing, performing, and analysing experiments, working and sharing data with other members of the team, preparing publications from the project.

ABOUT THE TEAM AND ENVIRONMENT

More at https://www.bronchialremodeling.com/bpco
The team “Bronchial Remodelling” is part of the Cardiothoracic Research Centre of Bordeaux (INSERM U1045), located on the campus of the university of Bordeaux, in Pessac. The group focused on COPD pathophysiology is a young and dynamic group of around 7 people (researchers/clinical researchers,

PhD students, engineers, techs). The overarching aim of the group is to understand the development of chronic respiratory diseases using interdisciplinary approaches, by focusing on the interactions between cells and their microenvironment. We have a recognized expertise in pulmonary physiology and pathophysiology, applying classical cell biology techniques, innovative imaging techniques and mathematical modelisation. The presence in the team of pulmonologists and surgeons garantees the access to clinical samples and feasibility of the project. The project will also benefit from outstanding imaging facility (Bordeaux Imaging Center) and flow cytometry facility.

ABOUT THE PROFILE

We are seeking for a profile in biology/physiology with knowledge in biochemistry. Interdisciplinary profiles are appreciated. Dexterity and thoroughness are valuable qualities for conducting this project. Experience in imaging, image analysis, primary cell culture and/or flow cytometry would be appreciated. Post-doctoral applicants willing to apply for a permanent researcher position are strongly encouraged to apply.

ABOUT THE APPLICATION

Interested in this opportunity? Please apply before Oct 15th, 2022 by sending a CV and explaining why we should work together on this project to isabelle.dupin@u-bordeaux.fr and patrick.berger@u- bordeaux.fr