Postdoc/PhD position available under the supervision of Stefania Viola, BiAM, Cadarache (Provence, France)

Molecular determinants of the regulation of alternative photosynthetic electron flows in microalgae

Under the supervision of Stefania Viola, Photosynthesis and Environment Team, BiAM, Cadarache (Provence, France)

Applications are invited for a postdoc or PhD position to study how alternative photosynthetic electron flows are regulated at the molecular level in microalgae. Our group has a strong interest in the photosynthetic mechanisms that are conserved in all phototrophic organisms for energy production (see: https://www.cite-des-energies.fr/en/home-biam/search/pe/ for more information on our group and research). The project will apply our knowledge of photosynthetic regulatory mechanisms to study how alternative photosynthetic electron flows are regulated in microalgae to meet the energy requirements for CO2 fixation. In particular, the project will focus on the connection between photosynthetic electron transport and respiration, that has been shown to significantly affect the photosynthetic performance in both eukaryotic microalgae and cyanobacteria. The project will also investigate how the regulation of the alternative electron flows depends on the molecular architecture of the electron transport chain. This multidisciplinary project will combine molecular biology, biochemistry, microscopy and non-invasive biophysical methods (fluorescence, absorption spectroscopy, gas exchange measurements).

We are looking for a talented and creative new team member. The successful candidate is highly motivated and has a strong interest in the molecular physiology of unicellular organisms. A solid knowledge of photosynthesis is essential; experience with photosynthetic measurements, biochemistry and/or molecular biology would be a plus. Good communication skills, ability to work in a team environment and fluency in spoken English and/or French and written English are required.

If you are interested in joining our team to study the regulation of photosynthetic electron transport, please send your application document (incl. letter of motivation, C.V., copies of your degrees, and names of 2-3 references) to Stefania Viola (stefania.viola@cea.fr). Postdoctoral candidates should have published at least one first author paper in a major international journal.

Review of applications will begin immediately and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Starting date is flexible and upon agreement, starting from January 2024.