We are looking for a highly motivated student to work on subcellular localization of RNAs in neuronal cells. The student will join the Besse group (http://ibv.unice.fr/research-team/besse/) at the Institut de Biologie Valrose (iBV-UMR7277; Nice, France).

About our research:

Our main research goal is to understand how specific classes of mRNAs get subcellularly localized in neurons of memory circuits. Specifically, we study how mRNAs assemble with regulatory proteins into dynamic macromolecular complexes, and how they are regulated in space and time in response to activity-dependent signals. To address these questions, we use Drosophila (fruit fly) as a powerful in vivo system where advanced genetics, imaging and biochemistry can be combined. Over the years, we have used and developed a range of complementary assays including in vivo live-cell imaging, in vivo RIP-seq, high throughput-microscopy, in vitro reconstitution assays. 

The successful candidate will specifically investigate the mechanisms underlying compartment-specific recruitment of mRNAs along axons, focusing on the role of actin-mediated anchoring and neuronal circuit activity. He/she will combine functional approaches with advanced imaging and behavior.

Funding

The position is funded for 3 years, starting early fall 2025.

Working environment

The Institut de Biology Valrose (iBV) is an international Institute located on the Valrose Campus of the University Côte d’Azur (Nice, France). The iBV hosts state-of-the-art technological platforms, including a light-microscopy, cytometry and bioinformatics. English is the working language in the group and in the Institute. 

Applications

Interested candidates are encouraged to send a CV, a description of research interests and accomplishments, and names and contact information of at least 2 referees to Florence Besse: florence.besse@univ-cotedazur.fr. Selection of students is expected to be completed for early September the latest. 

Selected recent references:

- De Queiroz B, Laghrissi H, Rajeev S, Blot L, De Graeve F, Dehecq F, Hallegger M, Dag U, Dunoyer de Segonzac M, Ramialison M, Cazevieille C, Keleman K, Ule J, Hubstenberger A and Besse F. (2025) Axonal RNA localization is essential for long-term memory. Nature communications, 16(1) :2560. doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-57651-7.

- Bauer K., De Queiroz B.R., Kiebler M. and Besse F. (2023). RNA granules in neuronal plasticity and disease. Trends in Neurosciences, 46(7):525-538doi: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.04.004.

- Vijayakumar J, Perrois C, Heim M, Bousset L, Alberti S and Besse F. (2019) The prion-like domain of Drosophila Imp promotes axonal transport of RNP granules in vivo, Nature communications. 10(1):2593. doi: 10.1038/s41467-019-10554-w.