PhD thesis in the field of nanotoxicology (m/f) in Luxembourg | Public Research Centre - Gabriel Lippmann

The Public Research Centre - Gabriel Lippmann, a public establishment for applied scientific research and technology transfer, has an opening for a fixed-term position for its “Environment and Agro-biotechnologies” department (EVA) for:

a PhD thesis in the field of nanotoxicology (m/f)

(ref: EVA-20130829-PHDNANOTOXICO)

Description

The potential toxicity of nanomaterials (nanoparticles (NPs), nanostructures and nanomaterials) is of high societal and scientific interest due to the promise of groundbreaking innovations for many technical applications. Generally the PhD project NANOECO aims to obtain knowledge to understand the processes and factors involved in NP uptake and toxicity as such understanding is a prerequisite for the development of nanomaterials following the “safe-by-design” philosophy. The specific objectives of NANOECO are twofold: 1) Attempting to separate between effects of NPs and those from eventually leaching ions; 2) To study the variations in uptake kinetics and toxic effects in relation to the biomolecules attached to the surface of NPs.

The tasks of the PhD student are to unravel and compare the modes of action of toxicity of nanomaterials and nanoparticles on ecotoxicologically relevant model organisms such as Daphnia sp. and Gammarus sp. applying biochemical and –omic techniques. Endpoints of relevance can be mortality, behaviour and biomarkers that may include classical biomarkers of exposure and effect but will also include modern proteomic and transcriptomic endpoints that due to the unique holistic a posteriori approach have the potential to elucidate complex patterns of effects of NPs.

The individual selected for this position will be expected to learn techniques relevant for the toxicity experiments. The successful candidate is anticipated to carry out research by her/himself after an initial training period, to write scientific publications for international journals, and to lively participate in additional scientific activities such as giving presentations, and visiting conferences. To this end, the candidate is expected to take advantage of the multitude of state-of-the-art instrumentation available at the CRP-GL, such as genomic, proteomic, metabolomic or microscopic facilities.

The PhD student will work within the Environmental Risks and Health (ERIS) unit of the EVA Department. The selected candidate will be supervised by researchers from the CRP-GL (Belvaux, Luxembourg) and the University of Lorraine (France), where the PhD will be defended.

Profile:

- The candidate is expected to have a MSc in biology/molecular biology/cell biology or another relevant life science domain with an explicit training in toxicology, modern -omics techniques and ecotoxicological research questions;

- The candidate must have a good understanding of physiology and biochemistry shown by her/his scientific transcripts;

- Applicants should further possess an aptitude for organization, especially in sight of the planned complex experiments, be prepared to spend some time abroad;

- An interest to work in an interdisciplinary, multi-national team and a good attitude for team work is mandatory;

- The candidate must be fluent in English (oral and written).

Nr of positions available : 1

Research Fields

Biological sciences

Career Stage

Early stage researcher or 0-4 yrs (Post graduate)

Research Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Candidates interested in the above position can apply online on the Gabriel Lippmann website

The application file should include:

- a CV

- a motivation letter

- the names of two or three referees

- marks obtained at the university

- and a copy of the last diploma.

For any question regarding our job offers or the application process, please contact our recruitment team at Αυτή η διεύθυνση Email προστατεύεται από τους αυτοματισμούς αποστολέων ανεπιθύμητων μηνυμάτων. Χρειάζεται να ενεργοποιήσετε τη JavaScript για να μπορέσετε να τη δείτε.

Application Deadline: 29/10/2013