Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the research team Ecology and Genetics of Insects (EGI) to study plant-aphid-symbiont interactions at INRA Rennes.

The position is supported by the French National Research Agency and available from March 2014 for up to 30 months.

A postdoctoral researcher is required to undertake an innovative research project led by Dr. Akiko Sugio to understand the molecular mechanisms of host plant adaptation in the pea aphid complex and examine how facultative bacterial symbionts of the aphid assist the adaptation of the aphid to specific host plants.

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct identification and functional characterization of aphid saliva proteins and examine the influence of facultative bacterial symbionts on aphid saliva composition. The postdoctoral researcher will take full advantage of the resources available in the host research institute, which include excellent research facility, genomics and transcriptomics data of the pea aphid and symbiont complex, extensive live aphid collection and technical and intellectual support from technicians and scientists in the team.

Highly motivated individuals with a PhD degree having a strong background in molecular biology and genetics and an excellent track record of scientific productivity are encouraged to apply.

Previous experience with plant-pathogen/insect interactions (in particular, pathogen effectors and/or plant immunity), proteomics and bioinformatics skills would be highly desirable.

Salary on appointment will be within the range €2310.52 to €2833.74 per calendar month depending on qualifications and experience.

To apply for the position, please combine a cover letter, CV and names and contact information of three referees in one PDF file and send it to akiko.sugio@rennes.inra.fr.

The closing date for applications will be 15th November 2013.

For further information about the team EGI and the principal investigator, please consult our websites:
https://www6.rennes.inra.fr/igepp_eng/RESEARCH-TEAMS/Ecology-and-Genetics-of-Insects
https://www6.rennes.inra.fr/igepp_eng/Personnel/S/Sugio-Akiko