PhD Position in Plant Biology: Stress-Induced Phase Separation of AGO1 Protein

This PhD position at the Institut de Biologie Moléculaire des Plantes (CNRS, Strasbourg) focuses on the dynamic subcellular localization and phase separation of the AGO1 protein in the model plant *Arabidopsis thaliana*. The project investigates how thermal stress influences AGO1’s recruitment into stress granules, its interactions with small RNAs, and the functional consequences of these relocalizations. The research integrates bioinformatics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and advanced imaging techniques, with collaborative opportunities at partner institutions in Perpignan and Seville. The successful candidate will contribute to understanding plant resilience mechanisms under climate change, with potential applications in crop improvement.

• Investigate the role of AGO1’s Poly-Q domain in phase separation under thermal stress using transgenic Arabidopsis lines.
• Analyze the physiological consequences of disrupted phase separation on AGO1 stability, activity, and plant stress recovery.
• Study the impact of varying thermal stress intensity/duration on AGO1 localization, small RNA loading, and target mRNA regulation.
• Characterize molecular mechanisms controlling AGO1 stress granule formation, including post-translational modifications and protein interactions.
• Collaborate with partners in Perpignan and Seville to integrate proteomic, bioinformatic, and imaging data.
• Present findings at scientific conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.