Postdoctoral position II - Intracellular Persister Biology

Many pathogens are difficult to eradicate, even in the absence of genetically encoded antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and despite remaining susceptible to antibiotics in vitro. A subset of clonal bacteria can transiently withstand antibiotic treatment; these cells are known as antibiotic persisters. Increasing evidence highlights the pivotal role of the host cell environment in driving persister emergence. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to investigate how bacterial persisters arise within host cells. The successful candidate will develop innovative projects at the interface of cell biology, microbiology, and molecular biology, while leveraging cutting-edge single-cell technologies and multi-omics approaches. Candidates will also be encouraged to pursue independent ideas as they progress toward becoming an independent scientist.

Your profile

At CIRI, the Persistence and single-cell dynamics of respiratory pathogens Lab led by Nicolas Personnic explores how heterogeneity, across scales, is generated and how it allows pathogens to evade antibiotic clearance. We welcome applications from individuals driven to decipher how heterogeneity impacts infection processes and persister biology, as well as those excited about pioneering new concepts and methods in quantitative single-cell biology. Candidates should hold a relevant PhD degree, ideally in cell biology, with a strong publication record relative to their experience level. Team spirit is essential as well as an excellent oral and written communication skills in English. Scientists eligible for international postdoctoral mobility programs (eg. marie-sklodowska-curie-actions, …) supporting research in France are strongly encouraged to apply.

Conditions

 • Start date upon agreement.

 • The position is initially funded for 12 month. The candidate will be supported to apply to independent funding.

 • Salary follows Lyon 1 University regulations according to experience.

Contact

Candidates should send a CV and a cover letter including a brief description of research interests and your motivation to join the lab to nicolas.personnic@cnrs.fr. Include two letters of reference (one from your PhD supervisor).

Deadline for applications: November 15th, 2025 (23:59 Central European Time)

Relevant publications

•Dadole, I. et al. (2024). The macrophage-bacterium mismatch in persister formation. Trends in Microbiology.

•Striednig, B, et al. (2021). Quorum sensing governs a transmissive Legionella subpopulation at the pathogen vacuole periphery. EMBO Reports.

•Personnic, N. et al. (2019) Quorum sensing modulates the formation of virulent Legionella persisters within infected cells. Nature Communications.