Postdoctoral Position in Virus–Host Interactions and Chromatin Biology

CNRS; France; Sur place; EUR 42 000 - 52 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

CNRS benefits

Social security coverage

Facilities access

Résumé du poste

CNRS Institute of Human Genetics in France is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying the transcriptional regulation of hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). The project combines cutting-edge molecular biology, virology, epigenetics, and single-molecule analysis to uncover factors driving viral persistence.

The candidate should have a PhD in a relevant field, strong independence in experimental design, and excellent

Qualifications

• PhD in virology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related field.
• Strong background in designing, conducting, and interpreting experiments independently.
• Excellent scientific writing and communication skills.
• HBV research and/or epigenetics experience is an advantage.
• Fluent English language skills.

Responsabilités

• Investigate molecular and epigenetic mechanisms governing HBV cccDNA transcriptional regulation.
• Combine molecular biology, virology, epigenetics and single-molecule analysis approaches.
• Contribute to multidisciplinary collaborative research within IGH CNRS.

Connaissances

virology

molecular biology

gene expression regulation

cell culture

epigenetics & chromatin biology

ChIP-qPCR

Western blot

qPCR

single-molecule approaches

bioinformatics/data analysis

Formation

PhD in virology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry or related field

Description du poste

Organisation/Company CNRS Department Institute of Human Genetics Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Recognised Researcher (R2) Positions Postdoc Positions Application Deadline 30 Oct 2026 - 23:50 (Europe/Paris) Country France Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 38 Offer Starting Date 11 Feb 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 postdoctoral researcher will investigate the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms underlying the transcriptional regulation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), the viral reservoir responsible for persistent infection . By combining state-of-the-art approaches in molecular biology, virology, epigenetics, and single-molecule analysis, the project aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate HBV transcription and contribute to the establishment and maintenance of viral persistence.

Skills/Qualifications

The candidate (M/F) should be highly motivated and have strong technical skills in virology, molecular biology, gene expression regulation, and cell culture. Experience in the following areas would be highly desirable:

• Molecular biology and gene expression analysis
• Cell culture and transfection
• Epigenetics and chromatin biology
• Techniques such as ChIP-qPCR, Western blot, qPCR, and/or related molecular assays
• Single-molecule approaches, particularly single-molecule footprinting (SMF), would be a strong advantage
• Basic bioinformatics/data analysis skills would also be appreciated

Specific Requirements

• PhD in virology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field
• Strong background in molecular and cellular biology
• Demonstrated ability to design, conduct, and interpret experiments independently
• Good scientific writing and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Motivation to develop new experimental approaches and contribute to collaborative research
• Previous experience in HBV research and/or epigenetics is an advantage
• Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Years of Research Experience 1 - 4

Additional Information

• Three-year postdoctoral contract funded by ANRS
• Salary according to CNRS salary scales and applicable regulations
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technological platforms at the Institute of Human Genetics (IGH)
• Opportunities for scientific training, professional development, and participation in conferences
• Collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment
• CNRS employee benefits and social security coverage

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent doctoral degree) by the starting date of the position and meet the eligibility requirements for recruitment under CNRS (or ANRS) regulations.

Selection process

Applications will be evaluated based on the candidate’s scientific background, research experience, technical skills, and motivation.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview. A second interview may be conducted in person at the Institute of Human Genetics (IGH), CNRS, Montpellier, depending on the circumstances.

The final selection will be based on the candidate’s scientific profile, motivation, technical expertise, and suitability for the project and research environment.