New-generation sequencing and bioinformatics have promoted the human microbiota to a position of driver of health and disease in case of dysbiosis. Major challenges remain in defining the frontiers of the symbiosis, its impact on development, physiology, health and disease. The Center will aim to establish causality links by combining basic experimental approaches and clinical studies and interventions.

The multidisciplinary Center will largely focus on child health and disease programming in relation to the maturation of his microbiota. The necessary cutting-edge technological platforms and animal facilities are available or will be further developed.

Translational research will address the emergence of post-modern, non-communicable, epidemics in industrialized regions and microbiota-related pathologies in low-income regions, such as susceptibility to infections and stunting.

In order to address these challenges, the Center launches an international call to recruit outstanding investigators:

A senior investigator with internationally-recognized expertise in bacterial (16S) and eukaryotic (18S) metataxonomics, shot-gun metagenomics and transcriptomics, with particular interest in generating cutting edge bioinformatic tools relevant to microbiota maturation and its alterations. Strong background in bioinformatics (including 2G and 3G sequencing), systems biology and artificial intelligence is expected. The PI will join a CMDH genomics platform dedicated to both discovery and molecular characterization of emerging pathogens, and bacterial and eukaryotic metagenomics. Within this platform, the PI will supervise a group of several junior bioinformaticians to carry out bioinformatic analyses in close collaboration with the Centre's groups.

Junior investigators with PhD, Engineer, or Master degrees in bioinformatics who will ensure smooth interactions between the platform and the research groups.

A senior investigator with internationally-recognized expertise in metabolomics developing a unique platform of “immunometabolomics” dedicated to advanced analysis of molecules related to the intestinal tract and other tissues, such as bacterial structural molecules and metabolites, bile acids, immune- and neuro-mediators, nutrients. Establishing high-resolution and quantitative mass-spectrometry-based analyzes is expected.

A senior investigator with expertise in clinical studies. The candidate is expected to develop microbiota-based interventions in relation with bench experiments, to establish causality links and propose solutions for disease states affecting high-income and low-income child populations. Application of MD/PhD with expertise in methodology of clinical studies and biostatistics, and experience in coordinating activities of the variety of implicated personals, from bench to bedside, is expected. Proficiency Chinese and English languages is essential for this position. 

Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Very competitive packages are proposed in relation to the seniority of candidates, including support for relocation in Shanghai. Applications comprising a CV, a list of 10 top publications, a 2-page summary of past scientific contributions, a research plan and three letters of recommendation, including statement of work ethic and scientific integrity, should be sent to Prof. Philippe Sansonetti <philippe.sansonetti@ips.ac.cn>, and to Emilie Carlot <emilie.carlot@ips.ac.cn>, center manager. Deadline for submission is set on Sunday 29th December, 2019, selected candidates will be notified by end of January, 2020, and on site interviews will be held during the second half of February, 2020.