Structural analysis of the influenza replication complex

This PhD position at Université Grenoble Alpes focuses on the structural analysis of the influenza virus replication complex reconstituted in vitro. The project aims to combine RNA polymerase, viral RNA, and nucleoprotein to form a minimal ribonucleoprotein (RNP) for high-resolution study via cryo-electron microscopy. Working within the host laboratory, the doctoral candidate will produce and purify recombinant proteins, design synthetic RNAs, and determine atomic-level interaction models. The successful applicant will be co-supervised by Drs Thibaut Crépin and Hélène Malet and collaborate within the national ResaFLU research network.

• Produce and purify recombinant protein partners involved in the influenza replication complex
• Design and generate synthetic RNAs to accommodate protein partners sequentially
• Establish in vitro assembly conditions for minimal ribonucleoprotein complexes
• Perform electron microscope data collection using single-particle cryo-EM or cryo-ET
• Process and analyze high-resolution images using specialized Linux software and implement novel strategies