진학프로석·박사 채용 접수 플랫폼

Context: Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a relatively common cancer predisposition disorder that leads to the formation of nerve sheath tumors. While NF1affects approxi- mately 1 in 3,000 individuals globally, there is currently no cure. A consortium sponsored by the Gilbert Family Foundation and composed of biologists specialized in NF1 disease (Topilko’s team from Mondor Institute for Biomedical Research), experts in computer science and biomedical imaging (Thierry Delzescaux’s team from Molecular Imaging Re- search Center at CEA) and physicochemists of soft matter and microfluidics (Nicolas Bremond’s team at ESPCI).

Objectives: For this project, we first aim at developing a microsystem that recapitu- lates the micro-environnement of peripheral nervous system. More specifically, we wish to investigate the interactions between neurons and cells from the micro-environnement, like Schwann cells or fribroblasts, at the level of axons embedded in an extra-cellular matrix. For that purpose, dedicated microsystems incorporating hydrogels to mimic the extra-cellular matrix will be designed to allow for cell co-culture. The main goal is to obtain high resolution imaging of cell morphology for various conditions in order to train AI based models for automated analysis of cell interactions in their microenvironment.

The second objective is to extend a high throughput methodology of compartmentalized cell culture developed in the laboratory. The compartments are composed of a liquid core surrounded by a hydrogel membrane, like a capsule where cells can be entrapped, and are obtained by a high speed co-extrusion in air method. A first aim is to develop a methodology for drug screening of encapsulated cells. A second one concerns the ability to adjust the hydrogel shell porosity to allow neuron’s axon to grow through. This part of the project will be carried out in tandem with a doctorale student from the laboratory who is developing chemical strategies for controlling porosity of hydrogels.

Profile: We look for a PhD, or having an engineer degree, having a strong interest and background in physico-chemistry of soft matter and in microfluidics but also who is pas- sionate for projects at the interface with biology. Skills in cell culture are not mandatory but we look for someone who is willing to learn cell culture methods in order to perform cell encapsulation in the laboratory. High motivation, flexibility, autonomy, the ability to work in a highly multidisciplinary team and good interpersonal and communication skills are essential.