Postdoc position in immuno-imaging

Université de Caen Normandie; France; Sur place; EUR 30 000 - 45 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A French university seeks a postdoctoral researcher in biological sciences to advance imaging techniques for studying the immune system using ultrasensitive particles. Responsibilities include executing experimental protocols, developing contrast agents, and engaging in team scientific activities. The ideal candidate holds a PhD, has postdoctoral experience, and excels in communication. This is a full-time temporary position in France with a deadline for applications on 31 Jan 2026.

Qualifications

• Postdoctoral experience and involvement in leading a research group appreciated.
• Ability to work within a multidisciplinary project.
• Experience in writing research projects and funding applications.

Responsabilités

• Execute experimental protocols related to imaging techniques.
• Master synthesis and development of contrast agents.
• Conduct animal experimentation while ensuring welfare.

Connaissances

Synthesis and vectorization of organic and inorganic particles

Advanced knowledge in MRI, MPI, PET

Animal experimentation experience

Image analysis proficiency in ImageJ and Paravision

Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Formation

PhD or equivalent

Description du poste

Organisation/Company Université de Caen Normandie Research Field Biological sciences Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Positions Postdoc Positions Country France Application Deadline 31 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 2 Mar 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The mission will be carried out within the framework of the project “Mapping the immune system using ultrasensitive sub-micrometric particles” (MAPLE), funded by the Impulscience® program of the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation. This project aims to develop imaging methods that allow precise localization of inflammatory sites and early detection of immune responses, with future applications in humans. To achieve this, the goal is to design targeted contrast agents to be used in various molecular imaging modalities: MRI, magnetic particle imaging (MPI), positron emission tomography (PET), and photoacoustic imaging. The project will take place within the Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders laboratory (PhIND, UMR-S 1237 INSERM).
Non-invasive imaging of inflammation is a major research axis of the PhIND laboratory, which has developed an original approach based on the use of large iron oxide particles coupled with monoclonal antibodies. The perspectives of this project are broad and promising, both fundamentally and translationally: non-invasive and dynamic study of the immune system, prediction of therapeutic efficacy (particularly in immunotherapy), and real-time monitoring of treatment response. Furthermore, the engineering of these particles paves the way for innovative therapeutic strategies, such as targeted drug delivery, and contributes to the emergence of sub-micrometric medicine as a promising field in biomedicine.

The postdoctoral researcher must be able to quickly learn the sub-micrometric particle synthesis techniques already developed in the laboratory, and then contribute to their optimization and further development. These particles will subsequently be used in experimental models of clinically relevant pathologies (sepsis, lupus, cerebral vasculitis, lung inflammation, acute arthritis, among others). The candidate must therefore be able to implement these experimental models and master the various imaging techniques (MRI, MPI, PET, photoacoustic imaging).

Hierarchical Positioning: The recruited researcher will be based in the “tPA and neurovascular pathologies” team of the INSERM UMR-S 1237 PhIND unit, under the supervision of the team leader.

Activities and Tasks of the Position :

• Execution of Experimental Protocols
• Synthesis and development of contrast agents: Design and carry out the synthesis of contrast agents, perform their in vitro characterization, and apply them in experimental models. Anticipate their potential transfer toward clinical use.
• Mastery of experimental models of acute and chronic inflammation in mice.
• Ensure animal welfare during and after procedures.
• Carry out imaging protocols (MRI, MPI, PET, photoacoustic imaging).
• Conduct longitudinal follow-up of animals to evaluate the biocompatibility and degradability of the developed contrast agents. Design and perform dose–response experiments to optimize their use.
• Collection of biological samples and associated histological analyses. Microscopy.

Data Analysis and Processing : Ensure the processing and structuring of the generated data (MRI, MPI, and ultrasound images), use appropriate statistical tools to extract relevant information, and interpret the obtained results.

Involvement in the Scientific Life of the Team : Contribute to the organization of scientific activities, interact regularly with researchers, engineers, PhD candidates, and Master’s students, and support the collaborative dynamic of the laboratory.

Dissemination, Valorization, and Scientific Partnerships : Ensure the communication of project outcomes through scientific publications, conference presentations, and intellectual property protection initiatives.

Where to apply

E-mail [e-mail]

Requirements

Research Field Biological sciences Education Level PhD or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

Required Level: PhD or Engineer/Doctorate degree. Postdoctoral experience and prior involvement in leading a research group will be appreciated, as well as the ability to work within a multidisciplinary project.

Technical Skills:

• Mastery of the regulatory, ethical, and deontological aspects of research.
• Supervision of junior researchers and students.
• Synthesis and vectorization of organic and inorganic particles.
• Imaging: advanced knowledge in MRI, MPI, PET.
• Experience in animal experimentation and FELASA certification (Category B or C, with surgical training and up-to-date continuing education).
• Knowledge of experimental models of acute and chronic inflammation.
• Image analysis (proficiency in ImageJ and Paravision).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Experience in writing research projects and funding applications (ANR, European programs).

Soft Skills : Autonomy, initiative, strong organizational skills, rigor in project management, team spirit, open-mindedness, curiosity, and enthusiasm for multidisciplinary projects are essential.

Specific Requirements

Languages

English - Excellent

French - Good level appreciated but not required

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Research Field Biological sciences Years of Research Experience 4 - 10

Additional Information

Eligibility criteria

PhD or Engineer/Doctorate degree
Postdoctoral experience and prior involvement in leading a research group will be appreciated, as well as the ability to work within a multidisciplinary project.
Proven track record in imaging techniques (publications, conference presentations, funding).