Free Education for Postdoctoral Research Position at the Interface Between Cartilage/bone and Vascular Biology at College de France

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position to join a new team led by Dr Hervé Kempf and part of the recently created INSERM Unit U833, chaired by Anne Eichmann. Funded by a grant from FRM (Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale), this position is tenable for up to 3 years and may start immediately. Our lab is located in central Paris at the prestigious Collège de France (www.college-de-france.fr), which offers state-of-the art facilities in an exciting and international research environment.

In addition to embryonic chondrogenesis, cartilage formation can also occur in adult arteries and eventually lead to vascular calcifications, which are widespread complications in aged individuals and patients with atherosclerosis, diabetes or chronic renal failure. Despite their medical relevance, mechanisms regulating these vascular calcifications due to an ectopic mineralization of the extra-cellular matrix of the arteries are poorly understood. Our project seeks to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation of the pathological mineralization occurring in the vascular wall, particularly those involved in the transition of vascular smooth muscle cells to cartilage during these pathologies. The postdoctoral project is aimed at defining the role of the pro-chondrogenic transcription factors involved in this transition using in vitro system as well as mouse models developing vascular calcifications.

The candidate must have a PhD or MD degree, be highly motivated and have relevant expertise in molecular biology and cell culture. Due to the international community in the lab, excellent communication skills in English are essential. Knowledge of French is a plus but not required. Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment is requisite. Expertise in genetically modified mouse models, imaging, bioinformatics and biochemistry are desirable but not required. There is no citizenship requirement.

For informal inquiries or full application including current CV, cover letter describing past research experience and interest as well as names and contact information of up to 3 references, please contact :
Herve Kempf, Ph.D.
Collège de France
INSERM U833
11, Place Marcelin Berthelot
75005 Paris, France
herve.kempf@college-de-france.fr

http://www.college-de-france.fr/chaires/instit_biologie/postes.html