Postdoctoral Position in TB/HIV co-infection - IPBS, 2020

Deadline for applications: 15 Mar 2020 

Location: Toulouse, France

We are looking for a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher with a particular interest in cell imaging in the context of host-pathogen interactions, and with an excellent background in identifying and solving scientific problems. The job is for 3 years and aims to better understand HIV-1 / Mtb co-infection. General responsibilities include the design, implementation and interpretation of experiments, both independently and collaboratively, and the clear and concise communication of research and results. The candidate must complete a short-term internship with Dr Luciana Balboa, CONICET (Buenos Aires, Argentina), at least once during his postdoctoral internship.

Activities

Co-infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the etiological agent of tuberculosis (TB), and HIV-1 is a major health problem worldwide. It is known that the synergistic relationship between HIV-1 and Mtb results in increased proliferation of the pathogen and the pathogenesis associated with it. In this context, we recently demonstrated that tunneling nanotubes (TNT) are cellular structures induced by a micro-environment associated with tuberculosis that promotes the spread of HIV-1 among macrophages, increasing the viral load as we observed in patients co-infected with HIV and tuberculosis. TNTs are thin connections that have attracted international scientific attention as a new intercellular communication mechanism allowing establish a continuous cytoplasmic bridge between cells. We will now determine the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlled by Mtb which improves cell-to-cell transfer of HIV-1, in particular in the context of TNT. Innovative microscopic approaches will be used to study the dynamics of TNT and HIV-1 transfer in macrophages, both in vitro and in vivo. Based on solid preliminary data, we will focus on the cell surface lectin receptor, Siglec-1 (CD169), a factor that is crucial in the synergy between Mtb and HIV-1. especially in the context of TNT. Innovative microscopic approaches will be used to study the dynamics of TNT and HIV-1 transfer in macrophages, both in vitro and in vivo. Based on solid preliminary data, we will focus on the cell surface lectin receptor, Siglec-1 (CD169), a factor that is crucial in the synergy between Mtb and HIV-1. especially in the context of TNT. Innovative microscopic approaches will be used to study the dynamics of TNT and HIV-1 transfer in macrophages, both in vitro and in vivo. Based on solid preliminary data, we will focus on the cell surface lectin receptor, Siglec-1 (CD169), a factor that is crucial in the synergy between Mtb and HIV-1.

Qualifications required
- A doctorate, preferably in cell biology or immunology.
- Scientific excellence attested by publications and presentations at national and international meetings.
- Practical experience in biological imaging, including wide field, confocal and live imaging, and a solid theoretical understanding of all current and emerging microscopy technologies.
- Demonstrate solid computer skills, including experience in image analysis, FlowJo, Prism and Excel.
- Demonstrate a high level of initiative, autonomy and the ability to assume a high level of responsibility.
- Strong interpersonal skills necessary to deal effectively with different people and groups, both scientific and non-scientific.
- Fluency in English to manage our LIA partnership with Argentina; oral communication in Spanish would be a plus.

Additional Qualification Desired
- Experience growing primary cells and mammalian cell lines, and basic immunoassays such as multicolor flow cytometry, immunofluorescence and ELISA.
- Knowledge of histology, quantitative PCR and general laboratory protocols and methodologies used in the biological sciences.
- Experience working in biosafety level 3 facilities.
- Have already supervised master or doctoral students.
- Experience in editing and writing original research articles and grant applications is an asset.

For more information, or to apply, visit the call webpage.