The Laboratory of Bioimaging and Pathologies, CNRS-UMR 7021, University of Strasbourg, France is seeking a highly motivated postdoc for an interdisciplinary research project on the cellular fate of antigens absorbed on aluminium gels used as vaccines. Aluminum-based adjuvants (ABA) are added to antigens (Ag) to enhance their immune response. Each year ABA containing vaccines are administered to tens of million people providing protection against many severe diseases. However, little is known on how the ABA properties affect vaccine efficiency. A better understanding of the fate of aluminum gel and antigens in cells and the resulting cellular responses will help to better understand the mechanisms of action of aluminum-based vaccines and to optimize vaccine formulation.
The candidate will study in detail by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry the internalization and cellular distribution as well as the possible dissociation of antigen / aluminum complexes in immune cells. Thereafter, he / she will monitor the cell responses in the presence of the antigen / aluminum complexes, examining in particular the activation of the immune cell pathways.
Applicants must have training and experimental skills in cell biology (primary culture and cell sorting) and microscopy (immunofluorescence, confocal). Prior research experience in immunology or vaccinology will be a plus. The successful candidate will have to begin his postdoctoral internship by December 1, 2019, at the latest.
The one-year postdoctoral fellowship will be funded by Région Grand Est and Sanofi Pasteur, with possible extension. Interested applicants should submit a CV and cover letter to Pr. Yves Mély at yves.mely@unistra.fr and Dr Ludovic Richert at ludovic.richert@unistra.fr. Application deadline: September 15, 2019.
For more information on the Laboratory of Bioimaging and Pathologies can be found at: http://www-lbp.unistra.fr
