Postdoctoral Positions - Genetics, Evolution, and Ecology of Nematodes
Braendle Lab, Institute of Biology Valrose, Nice, France

Our research focuses on uncovering the mechanisms underlying evolutionary
changes in developmental and behavioral processes in nematodes. Current
work emphasizes the evolution of egg-laying behavior and transitions to
viviparity. In parallel, we study the natural history, ecology, and
phylogenetics of Caenorhabditis nematodes.

We are recruiting TWO postdoctoral researchers for projects funded by
HFSP (Human Frontier Science Program) and ANR (Agence Nationale de la
Recherche). Flexible start dates: January to July 2026.

Project 1: Behavioural adaptation to arsenic-rich environments (HFSP)

This project investigates behavioral, metabolic, and physiological
adaptations that enable nematodes to survive in arsenic-rich and other
extreme environments. A key focus is understanding how reproductive
behavior changes particularly the transition from egg-laying to
viviparity contribute to survival. Phylogenetic analyses will trace the
evolution of viviparity across nematodes, and we aim to identify
convergent survival strategies.

Background: Mignerot et al., 2024. DOI: 10.7554/eLife.88253.2
Collaborators:
  - Cornelia Bargmann (Rockefeller University, USA)
  - Elizabeth New (University of Sydney, Australia)
  - Ryoji Shinya (Meiji University, Japan)

Candidate Profile:
Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, including:
  * Evolutionary biology, ecology, comparative genomics, phylogenetics
  * Molecular genetics, developmental biology, neurobiology
  * Nematode systematics and taxonomy

Ideal candidate:
  - Strong skills in experimental design, data analysis, and bioinformatics
  - Excellent English communication
  - Experience with C. elegans or other nematodes highly desirable

Project 2: Plasticity and evolution of egg-laying behaviour (ANR)

This project studies the molecular basis of genetic assimilation in nematode
egg retention, a conditional trait shaped by neuromodulation. Using
natural and experimental populations of C. elegans, the project will apply
genome-wide association mapping, CRISPR-Cas9 editing, and experimental
evolution to explore adaptive significance.

Collaborator:
  - Henrique Teotonio (École Normale Supérieure, Paris)

Background: Vigne et al., 2021. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abd9941

Candidate Profile:
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in evolutionary genetics
and bioinformatics, including:
  * Population and comparative genomics, statistical genetics
  * Bioinformatics pipelines for large-scale genomic and transcriptomic data

Additional experience in molecular genetics or nematode biology is
advantageous.

Position and Salary

* Duration: Up to three years, start date flexible
* Salary: According to CNRS / Université Côte d'Azur guidelines,
  commensurate with experience

Work Environment

The Braendle lab is part of the Institute of Biology Valrose (IBV),
located in the center of Nice on the Mediterranean coast. The institute
hosts 25 research groups with over 200 members from diverse disciplines
and nationalities.

* Working language: English
* Offers: Supportive atmosphere, modern infrastructure, technical expertise,
  interdisciplinary collaborations

More info: http://ibv.unice.fr/research-team/braendle/

How to Apply

Please send a single PDF containing:
  1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  2. Brief description of previous research experience (max 2 pages)
  3. Cover letter outlining motivation and interest
  4. Names and contact info of three referees

Deadline: November 30, 2025
Email: christian.braendle@univ-cotedazur.fr

Christian Braendle <Christian.BRAENDLE@univ-cotedazur.fr>

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