As part of the project "CAZIKANO" (ANRS-23-PEPR-MIE 0004), managed by ANRS | MIE under the France 2030 framework, the UMR PIMIT is seeking a post-doctoral contractual researcher with expertise in medical entomology or virology (arboviruses). You will study the interactions between African strains of the Zika virus and the Aedes albopictus mosquito in the Southwest Indian Ocean.
Context of the CAZIKANO project
The Zika virus (ZIKV) is an arbovirus transmitted to humans by mosquitoes of the Aedes genus. ZIKV became a major public health issue starting in 2013 with outbreaks in French Polynesia, and later in Latin America from 2015 onwards. To date, ZIKV epidemics are associated with viral strains of the Asian genotype. However, strains of ZIKV recently isolated in West Africa possess a strong teratogenic potential and are transmitted more efficiently than the Asian strains by mosquito vectors. Therefore, African strains of ZIKV could pose a significant risk of global emergence. The CAZIKANO project, which brings together a multidisciplinary consortium of eight research teams from France and Australia, aims to decipher the interactions between contemporary ZIKV strains present in sub-Saharan Africa and their hosts (mosquitoes and humans) with the goal of proposing innovative antiviral strategies to contribute to the global fight against Zika fever.
Main Missions and Activities
The postdoctoral fellow's missions will include: (i) assessing the vector competence and vertical transmission of contemporary African ZIKV strains by Aedes albopictus populations from the Indian Ocean region; (ii) analyzing the effects of viral strains on the fitness of vector mosquitoes; and (iii) studying the role of the viral NS1 protein in the transmission efficiency of ZIKV by Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
Skills and Qualifications Expected
The candidate must hold a PhD in biology with a specialization in entomology or virology (arboviruses). Previous laboratory experience is required, and experience in biosafety level 3 laboratories will be an asset. The candidate must be highly motivated and demonstrate scientific rigor in designing, documenting, and analyzing data. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential.
The contract will last 18 months starting on February 3, 2025. The application deadline is December 1, 2024. Recruitment will be handled by INSERM, which manages the administrative and financial aspects of the CAZIKANO project. The salary offered will follow the current INSERM scale for postdoctoral contractual agents assigned to the French overseas departments and regions.
To apply: Please send the following documents in a single PDF file addressed to Dr. Célestine ATYAME (pryrfgvar.nglnzr-agra@havi-erhavba.se) and Prof. Philippe DESPRES (cuvyvccr.qrfcerf@havi-erhavba.se): (i) a CV, (ii) a cover letter detailing your previous research and experience relevant to the position, and (iii) two letters of recommendation.