Engineer – brain organoids culture

Organisation/Company Inserm 1266 Department Institut de Psychiatrie et Neuroscience de Paris (Inserm 1266) Research Field Biological sciences » Other Neurosciences » Neurobiology Other Researcher Profile Established Researcher (R3) Positions Research Support Positions Application Deadline 2 Mar 2026 - 10:00 (Europe/Paris) Country France Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 38 Offer Starting Date 1 Apr 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - ERC Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description We are currently seeking a talented and motivated Engineer to join our team for an exciting project funded by the ERC. Background: Cajal–Retzius (CR) cells are among the earliest-born neurons in the developing cortex and play a crucial role in establishing proper cortical regionalization and lamination. Distinct CR subtypes are generated at signaling centers in response to morphogens and participate through migration and morphogens release in long range-patterning of cortical regions. However, their developmental origins and the molecular mechanisms underlying CR function in humans remain poorly understood. The PatCorg ERC project aims to investigate how specific morphogens regulate the formation of signaling centers and the emergence of distinct CR cell lineages in human brain organoids. By systematically modulating key morphogen pathways, we will assess their effects on CR cell specification, subtype diversity, and their capacity to enhance regionalization and laminar organization within cortical-like structures. Through these studies, we seek to advance the development of a physiologically relevant human brain organoid model that more accurately recapitulates early cortical development, enabling the investigation of neuronal migration disorders and the functional organization of human neural circuits. Mission objectives: Development of genetically modified iPS lines Cell Culture: Maintenance, quality controls of iPS cells culture Differentiation from iPS to different types of brain/cortical organoids Deciphering the molecular basis of the formation of signaling centers in brain organoids Study the functional impact of genetic modifiers through RNAseq experiments Histological approaches: immuno‑fluorescent labelings, whole mount and clearing techniques will be used to analyze organoids Where you will work: Institut Imagine, based in Paris (France). It is the largest European centre for research, education, and care with the goal of understanding and curing genetic diseases. It brings together numerous specialists from around the world in order to make the various specialties needed for optimum research and patient care available in one place. The Institute was designed to promote communication and synergies between clinicians and researchers. Salary and duration of contract: The position is fully funded by the ERC (administered by the CNRS, French National Council of Research) starting April 1st 2026 for a duration of 5 years. Where to apply: Interested candidates should send 1) a complete CV, 2) a motivation letter, and 3) contact information for one or two references to Dr. Alessandra Pierani (alessandra.pierani@inserm.fr). Pre‑selected candidates will be interviewed by the PI and will have the opportunity to exchange with other members of the team during the interview process. Requirements Education Level: Master degree or equivalent Required Knowledge: Cell culture (iPS/organoids knowledge is appreciated) General knowledge in genetics and molecular biology Operational Skills: Strong cell culture experiences (iPS/organoids expertise is appreciated) Imaging / confocal experiences Good communication skills and English proficiency (B2 to C1) Flexibility Desired experience: 2 to 5 years of research experience Languages ENGLISH Level Good #J-18808-Ljbffr