Job ID: 122852

Impact of environmental pollutants on early development as a susceptibility factor for neurodegenerative diseases

Position: Post-doctoral Position

Deadline: 22 May 2025

Employment Start Date: 1 September 2025

Contract Length: 3 years

City: Tours

Country: France

Institution: Inserm

Department:

Description:

Scientific background

This project aims to investigate the impact of selected environmental pollutants on brain function across the lifespan, with a particular focus on their contribution to Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline. The research will examine how complex mixtures of pollutants – such as anilinopyrimidine fungicides, organofluorinated compounds, heavy metals, and e-waste components – affect early brain development and increase susceptibility to neurodegenerative diseases later in life.

The selected candidate will be responsible for characterizing the behavioral, transcriptional, and cellular signatures associated with this exposome in mouse models at both early and adult stages of development. A primary objective is to identify candidate genes and molecular mechanisms that are involved in neurodegeneration development.

Qualification

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a Ph.D. in behavioral neuroscience or a related discipline. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in behavioral phenotyping in mice as well as expertise in transcriptomic analysis (both whole genome and targeted) and cellular and molecular neuroscience techniques. A solid background in neuronal circuitry, plasticity and pharmacology in neurodevelopmental research is essential for this position. Prior experience with degenerative and/or inflammatory brain disorders will be considered a strong asset.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrate autonomy and initiative, and be able to work effectively independently and in a collaborative environment. This position will involve active involvement in a multidisciplinary European research consortium.

Position

The position is available for 3 years at the laboratory INSERM Imaging Brain & Neuropsychiatry iBraiN U1253, Université de Tours, Tours (France), from September 2025. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Application

Please send a letter of interest, a full CV, and contact information for 2 referees to Jérôme Becker (jerome.becker@inserm.fr)