PhD Thesis: Innovative Coupling of Experimental and Modeling Approaches to Assess the Role of Amoebae in Antibiotic Resistance Dissemination in Soil
Explore the hidden role of soil amoebae in spreading antibiotic resistance through interdisciplinary research combining field experiments and computational modeling.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a strong background in microbiology, environmental science, or computational modeling, interested in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of ecology and public health.
Overview
This PhD position focuses on investigating how soil amoebae contribute to the dissemination of antibiotic resistance—a critical but understudied environmental pathway. Based at the Institut des Géosciences de l'Environnement (IGE) in Grenoble, the project integrates experimental work (reactors, soil cores, X-ray tomography) with hydrobiogeochemical modeling to quantify the transport and persistence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and resistance genes (ARG) in soil ecosystems. The research aligns with the One Health framework, addressing a global public health threat with direct environmental and human health implications. Applicants should be passionate about interdisciplinary science and eager to contribute to innovative solutions for antibiotic resistance.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental work using soil reactors, soil cores, and X-ray tomography to study the behavior of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and resistance genes (ARG) in soil environments.
- Develop and apply hydrobiogeochemical models to simulate the transport and persistence of ARB and ARG within soil matrices.
- Integrate molecular techniques (e.g., labeling) to track the survival and mobility of amoebae and resistant bacteria in soil ecosystems.
- Analyze and interpret experimental and modeling data to assess the risk of antibiotic resistance dissemination in soil environments.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to synthesize findings and contribute to the One Health framework for addressing environmental health threats.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Microbiology, Environmental Science, Ecology, Biogeochemistry, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: French proficiency is not explicitly required; however, English proficiency is mandatory for research communication and collaboration.
Instruction: French (primary language of the institution) and English (for research outputs and collaboration).
- Strong background in microbiology or environmental science with a focus on bacteria and soil ecosystems.
- Experience with experimental techniques in microbiology (e.g., culturing, molecular biology).
- Familiarity with computational modeling, particularly hydrobiogeochemical or similar approaches.
- Proficient in data analysis and statistical methods for scientific research.
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
- Open to all nationalities.
- No specific residency or age restrictions mentioned.
- No prior experience caps mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-13
Applicants must submit their application through the CNRS employment portal. The application should include a CV, a cover letter detailing their research interests and motivation, and academic transcripts. Additional documents may be requested depending on the evaluation process.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's degrees)
- Motivation letter explaining research interests
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.