Mots-Clés
Oysters
Host–pathogen interactions
multi-omics
Epigenetics
Cell biology
integrative approach
bioinformatics/biostatistics
Innate immunity and memory
Description
We are seeking expressions of interest for a potential postdoctoral position in the Interactions Hôte-Pathogènes-Environnements (IHPE) unit at the University of Montpellier, France. This opportunity is linked to an upcoming postdoctoral grant application supported by IFREMER (https://www.ifremer.fr/en). If successful, the position is expected to start second semester of 2026.
Scientific context
Discover how oysters “remember” — and help push the boundaries of our understanding of immune systems while addressing the urgent challenge of sustaining oyster production for the
future. Oysters, like many invertebrates, rely on sophisticated innate immune defenses to withstand microbial challenges. Understanding these mechanisms is not only a fundamental question in comparative immunology but also critically urgent for aquaculture, where recurrent disease outbreaks threaten oyster populations and the sustainability of production. Our team focuses on unraveling the cellular and molecular foundations of oyster immune responses through integrative strategies combining functional immunology, cutting-edge omics technologies, and bioinformatics.
The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary program dedicated to uncovering the biological processes that shape immune defense, disease resistance, and long-term immune memory in oysters. Research approaches may include molecular analyses, cellular assays, and systems-level integration of multi-omics data, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to both fundamental discoveries and practical solutions to support resilient aquaculture.
Candidate profile
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team investigating the molecular and cellular basis of immune memory in oysters.
• PhD in biology, immunology, bioinformatics, molecular biology, or related fields.
• PhD obtained within the last three years (as required by the French LPPR law).
• Researchers of any nationality are eligible, but must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding the call deadline (January 2026).
• Expertise in at least one of the following: transcriptomics/epigenomics, or bioinformatics.
• Strong interest in invertebrate biology, host–pathogen interactions.
• Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary and international team.
Funding note
This position is linked to a competitive postdoctoral grant application supported by IFREMER (upcoming call @ https://www.ifremer.fr/en/travailler-l-ifremer/rejoignez-l-ifremer-pour-votre-post-doctorat).
The candidate will be actively involved in finalizing the grant proposal with the PI and, if successful, will be offered a postdoctoral contract starting in 2026.
Scientific environment
The IHPE laboratory (IFREMER, CNRS, University of Montpellier & University of Perpignan; - IHPE «Interactions Hôtes-Pathogènes-Environnements » ) is internationally recognized for its expertise in marine host–pathogen interactions and environmental epigenetics. The lab offers a dynamic and collaborative environment, with access to cutting-edge platforms in genomics, epigenomics, flow cytometry, imaging, metabolomics, and high-performance bioinformatics. English is the working language.
Contract details
• Duration: 36 months (subject to grant acceptance).
• Starting date: Expected from mid-2026.
• Salary: According to IFREMER scale, based on experience.