Phd Position in Computer Science at University of Strasbourg, France

Phd in Cloud Computing for Datadriven Applications at University of Strasbourg, France
The Scientific and Parallel Computing and Imaging (ICPS) group is seeking very good candidates for the following subject. Applicants shall have a Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or in a related discipline. As for all PhD studies, a genuine interest and curiosity in the subject matter and excellent analytical and communication skills, orally as well as literally, are needed. Further, since the research work normally involves developing and testing analytical techniques, good programming skills are important. A successful candidate should have a profound interest in parallel and distributed systems.
The main objectives of this PhD is to study the different available cloud solutions and to propose an environment able to transparently manage resources for dynamic-data-driven applications. The work will have to tackle specific issues such as handling on-the-fly provisioning of resources suitable to one given application, as well as their reservation, deployment and execution of processes.
Salary : 1300 Eur net / month (+optional 300 Eur/month if 64hrs teaching/year)
Application Deadline : 31st May 2010
Source :
http://icps.u-strasbg.fr/web/jobs/cloud-computing-for-datadriven-applications

PhD Position in Geosciences at Mines-ParisTech in Fontainebleau, France

The Geophysical team of the Centre de Geosciences at Mines-ParisTech in Fontainebleau (France) has a position for a PhD in geophysics (3 years) for a gifted young student on the following subject:
“Near surface characterization using surface waves”
Description :
The research context of the PhD thesis is the geophysical exploration, whose aim is the study of the Earth subsurface by exploiting and analyzing the properties of seismic/elastic waves which are reflected by the subsurface in-homogeneities and recorded at the surface. The provided subsurface characterization is crucial for the petroleum industry to find oil and gas traps.
In the context of hydrocarbon exploration, the seismic techniques that are traditionally more diffused are based on body-wave propagation, in particular P-wave reflections, since these waves spread energy into the Earth’s interior and carry on interesting information about the deep subsurface. On the contrary surface waves, which represent about 67% of the propagating seismic energy, are usually considered as coherent noise to be removed or attenuated. However, the properties of surface waves depend on the elastic parameters of the shallow subsurface, whose lateral variations and heterogeneities strongly affect surface wave propagation.
The objective of the PhD research is to investigate innovative techniques for extracting and using all the relevant information content of surface waves, before removing them from the acquired seismic data. The inversion of surface wave properties contributes to the creation of a near-surface model. For hydrocarbon exploration, proper knowledge of the near surface would allow to improve model building at the exploration target depth, as well as the quality of seismic data processing.
While most of the traditional approaches generate a 1D model, the PhD project aims at extending actual methods to yield a 2D model of the near-surface. For the 2D inversion, it will be worthwhile to analyze first which of the model parameters are actually influenced by the surface wave propagation. This sensitivity analysis would allow the introduction in the inverse problem of novel kinds of independent information, such as the higher modes of surface waves and the polarization parameters, in order to increase the reliability and to better constraint the inversion result.
Candidate profile
The candidate must have a research master degree in physics, geophysics or applied mathematics, and be interested in seismic signal processing and seismic imaging. The candidate should also have experience in programming. Good knowledge of English is essential.
Location and dates
Location : Centre de Géosciences, Mines ParisTech, Fontainebleau, France
Duration : 3 years, starting from September/October 2010
Salary
Around 1500 euros per month (net salary)
How to apply
Please post or email a detailed CV and a motivation letter to :
Daniela Donno
Centre de Géosciences, Mines ParisTech
35 rue Saint-Honoré, 77305 Fontainebleau, France
E-mail: daniela.donno@mines-paristech.fr
Tel: +33 1 64 69 49 38
Fax: +33 1 64 69 49 35
Please quote reference : 10/geophy_sw
For infos
Please contact Daniela Donno (daniela.donno@mines-paristech.fr) or Hervé Chauris (herve.chauris@mines-paristech.fr), and also refer to http://www.geophy.ensmp.fr

[France] Master And PhD Program In Systems And Synthetic Biology

The University of Evry-Val-d’Essonne, near Paris, proposes a Master in Systems and Synthetic Biology (mSSB) in partnership with AgroParis Tech, Ecole Centrale Paris and Telecom SudParis.


The vigorous development of Systems and Synthetic Biology is a grandchallenge that must be met both from the research and educationperspectives. The aim of mSSB is to provide students from the LifeSciences, Computer Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry orPhysical Sciences a mean to fruitfully engage in collaborative workacross disciplinary boundaries, with applications in Systems andSynthetic Biology. The mSSB will benefit from an exceptional localresearch environment in these fields, with the leading french BioparkGenopole®. Following this M2 Master, several PhD programs are possibleon site.


Applicants may come from Universities or from Engineering schoolsafter a first year of master (M1), or an equivalent qualification.Bi-disciplinary educational background including Biology is favored,but highly-achieving and motivated students in any of the citeddisciplines can apply.


Deadline : May 22, 2010

Several Master scholarships are proposed to foreignstudents who want to study in France. Interested students must contactas soon as possible Dominique Zeliszewski ( dominique.zeliszewski@epigenomique.genopole.fr This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )

PhD position in Regulation of Ion Channels In Carginogenesis, Nice, France

PhD position in Regulation of Ion Channels In Carginogenesis, Nice, France


REGULATION OF ION CHANNELS IN CARCINOGENESIS



PhD position (CNRS/PACA funding) available from September 2010 in the Institute of

Developmental Biology and Cancer (UNSA CNRS UMR 6543), in the group of Dr Franck

Borgese at the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis / CNRS, Nice, France.



Thesis supervisor: Dr Olivier Soriani

Our project will focus on the regulation of ion channels involved in cancer cell behaviour (apoptosis resistance, extra cellular matrix adhesion and degradation,

motility, proliferation). Recently, we have demonstrated that a unique tumour biomarker, the sigma-1 receptor (Sig1R), was functionally associated to Cl- and K+ channels in lung cancer and leukaemia cells. We have shown that the over-expression of Sig1R in cancer cells enhances cell apoptotic resistance through a decrease of volume-regulated Cl- channels activation kinetics (Renaudo et al., 2007; Le Guennec et al., 2008). Moreover, exogenous sigma ligands inhibit cell cycle through a K+ channel / p27kip1-dependent pathway (Renaudo et al. 2004).



The project will deal on the molecular mechanisms associating the Sig1R to ion channels aberrantly expressed in leukaemia and breast cancer cells, in relation to their aggressiveness state. Finally, in vivo significance of the described mechanisms will be explored in a mouse metastatic model.



Main technical approaches: Molecular cell biology, genetics, microscopy imagery and

electrophysiology (patch-clamp).



We are seeking highly talented and self-motivated candidates. A background in the field of electrophysiology and cell physiology will be appreciated. The position

will be available on September 2010.



Candidates are invited to obtain application forms from soriani@unice.fr or borgese@unice.fr



Application deadline: Friday 30th April. Provisional date for auditions of short listed candidates: Monday 17th May



Références:

· Martial,S., Giorgelli,J. L., Renaudo,A., Derijard,B., and Soriani,O. (2008). SP600125 inhibits Kv channels through a JNK-independent pathway in cancer cells. Biochem. Biophys. Res.

Commun. 366, 944-950

· Renaudo,A., L'Hoste,S., Guizouarn,H. , Borgese,F., and Soriani,O. (2007). Cancer cell cycle modulated by a functional coupling between sigma receptors and Cl- channels. J. Biol. Chem. 282, 2259-2267.

· Le Guennec,J.Y. , Ouadid-Ahidouch, H., Soriani,O., Besson,P., Ahidouch,A., and Vandier,C. (2007). Voltage-gated ion channels, new targets in anti-cancer research. Recent Patents Anticancer Drug Discov. 2, 189-202.

· Renaudo,A., Watry,V., Chassot,A.A. , Ponzio,G., Ehrenfeld,J. , and Soriani,O. (2004). Inhibition of tumor cell proliferation by sigma ligands is associated with K+ Channel inhibition and p27kip1 accumulation. J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 311, 1105-1114.

PhD Positions across 7 Countries in Microbiology

Deadline: 30/05/2010
Open to: young researchers of any nationality or country of residence
Scholarship: 36 months

CLOSTNET represents a unique opportunity for a total of 22 young researchers of any nationality or country of residence to pursue a PhD based at one of these Centres of Excellence (2 students per centre).  Each PhD will be of 36 months and will involve up to 6 months secondment  to a partner laboratory.

ELIGIBILTY

Researchers must be Early Stage Researchers – defined as those in the first 4 years (full-time equivalent) of their research career, starting at the date of obtaining the degree which would entitle them to embark on a doctorate.

Each of the 11 Partners will take on 2 students each, ie., 22 in total.

Student will be expected to begin their studies no earlier than 1st January 2010, and no later than 31st August 2010.

The participating laboratories are:

The University of Nottingham, UK (Prof. Nigel P. Minton)
The University of Exeter, UK (Prof. Rick Titball)
The University of Rostock, Germany (Prof. Hubert Bahl)
Technical University of Munich, Germany (Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Liebl)
The University of Helsinki, Finland (Prof. Miia Lindstrom)
The Institute of Public Health, Maribor, Slovenia (Dr Maja Rupnik)
Istituto Superiore di Sanitá, Rome, Italy (Dr Paola Mastrantonio)
Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Marseille, France (Prof. Chantal Tardiff)
Intervet International BV, The Netherlands (Dr Paul Vermeij)
Metabolic Explorer, France (Dr Philippe Soucaille)

Phico Therapeutics Ltd, UK (Dr Heather Fairhead)

Contact

PROJECT MANAGER
Jacque Minton

Centre for Biomolecular Sciences,
Clifton Boulevard,
University Park,
Nottingham,
NG7 2RD

Tel: 0115 846 6287
Fax: 0115 8232120
email: jacqueline.minton@nottingham.ac.uk

More info and on-line application.

France International Scholarships for India, Côte d’Ivoire, Madagascar, Morocco, Russia and Saudi Arabia Students

In March 2010, the Ministry of External and European Affairs (MEEA) and AIR LIQUIDE decided to create a
programme for hosting and supporting meritorious foreign students in France.
This forms part of the “QUAI D’ORSAY – ENTERPRISES” programme of the Ministry of External and European Affairs and is based on a public-private partnership The specificity of this MEEA programme lies in the creation of optimal and personalized conditions for hosting foreign students and jointly selecting candidates with the MEEA, AIR LIQUIDE and French higher education partner institutions.
The AIR LIQUIDE-MEEA co-financed scholarship programme is aimed at students hailing from India, Côte d’Ivoire, Madagascar, Morocco, Russia and Saudi Arabia, who are currently pursuing their studies in their countries. Only candidates holding the nationality of one of these six countries are eligible for this programme; candidates holding dual citizenship, if it includes French nationality, are not eligible.
For the academic year 2010-2011, 12 scholarships will be awarded.
FOR WHAT KIND OF STUDIES?
The AIR LIQUIDE-MEEA co-financed study scholarship will be awarded for one year of studies in France at the
Master 2 level or a Master of Science, in the following areas:
- Energy
- Industrial Engineering
- Engineering
- Economics/ Finance

Further Scholarship Information and Application (pdf)

Master Scholarships in Particle Physics at Clermont-Ferrand, France

Master Scholarships for the Master in Particle Physics at Université Blaise Pascal (1), Clermont-Ferrand, France
The 2nd year of the Master of Physics at Clermont-Ferrand1 welcomes students from France and abroad, provided they have passed the Master 1 exams, or possess the background expected after 4 years of Physics. To promote mobility and excellence, a number of 5,000 euros fellowships have been opened this year to the best candidates satisfying high level academic criteria.
Teaching program:

• 200 hours of advanced lectures in particle physics include: field theory, symmetries in Physics, particle physics detectors, Quantum Electro-Dynamics, Quantum Chromo-Dynamics, Electro-Weak Standard Model. Part of the lectures are given in english; a good command of both the French and English languages is required.
• 5 months of research training in a research laboratory. The LPC (Laboratoire de Physique Corpusculaire) of Clermont is one of the 18 laboratories of the French Institute for Particle Physics of the CNRS (IN2P3). Research is conducted in world-wide Particle Physics facilities, such as CERN (Geneva) or Fermilab (Chicago). For instance, research teams of the laboratory, which regularly host research trainings at the Master and PhD level, are involved in 3 of the four experiments at the Large Hadron Collider, both for instrumental developments of detectors and for the Physics analysis.

Research opportunities:
The Master diploma of the Blaise Pascal University allows holders to apply for any PhD fellowship in High Energy Physics in Europe and in the world (US, Japan). Typically 3 or 4 PhD fellowships are available each year at the Blaise Pascal University for the students having passed the Master of Physics.
Application procedure:
Applications should be sent by mail, before the 1st of May 2010 at the following address:
Michèle Chadelas, secrétariat du Master de Physique,
Laboratoire de Physique Corpusculaire (LPC), Université Blaise Pascal,
24 Avenue des Landais, 63177 Aubière Cedex.
http://www.univ-bpclermont.fr/FORMATIONS/Master/physique/
and should contain the same documents as for Master admission:

• a filled registration form (available from the web site);
• a statement of purpose;
• a detailed CV (resume);
• a copy of the passport with the photograph;
• detailed transcripts of University grades for the last 3 years of study and the copies of the last diploma obtained (with a certified translation when necessary);
• a recommendation letter from one close professor (confidential, in a sealed envelope);
• a Campus France number (for foreign students), proving that the visa application is under way (2);

(1)The University of Clermont-Ferrand has a tradition dating back to the XIIth century. In the XXth century it was named after the famous Physicist, Mathematician, and Philosopher Blaise Pascal, who was born in Clermont-Ferrand and established the atmospheric pressure in the surrounding mountains. The University counts about 14000 students, including 2000 foreigners.
(2)Campus France is a facility which depends on french embassies or consulates, aimed at helping and centralizing the application for studying in France. http://www.campusfrance.org

PhD Proposal, University of Montpellier 2 (France), Biopolymer Soft Matter

Name of the Laboratory : UMR 1208 Ingénierie des Agro-polymères et Technologies Emergentes (IATE), 2, place Pierre Viala, 34060 Montpellier cedex 1, FRANCE
PhD. director : Pr. Christian Sanchez (UM2), (PhD co-director: Paul Menut, MCF Montpellier SupAgro)
1-PH.D subject
Title: Soft matter based on biopolymers: solid-liquid transition of gluten, a viscoelastic protein material
Key-words: condensed phase, jamming, SAXS, USAXS, confocal microscopy, FRAP, proteins, solvatation, diffusion, fluorescence, rheology
1. Scientific context and objectives
The composition and structure of gluten from wheat kernel are key parameters governing its viscoelastic properties. The latter allow to process the gluten as materials, such as food and biomaterial matrices. Gluten proteins are to the origin of cohesion, viscoelastic, extensibility/fracture and permeability properties of these materials, especially their resistance to hydration. Gluten proteins can be divided in two major fractions according to their solubility in polar solvents: soluble monomeric gliadins and partly soluble polymeric glutenins. The total amount and size distribution of the polymeric protein fraction have been mainly times correlated to the mechanical properties of materials (bread, pasta, biomaterials).
The structure of supramolecular assemblies between gliadins and glutenins is a subject of discussions and controversy. Like any self-assembled macromolecular system, the thermodynamic equilibrium is based on the balance between, on the one part gliadins-glutenins interactions, on the other hand on their interactions with the solvent. On the caoutchoutic domain of gluten, the effect of hydration on its structure and functionality have never been explored. However, the water content of gluten in this domain allows to consider it like a soft condensed material, stopped or fluid (jamming transition). The determination of a phase diagram in this range of water content is then fundamental in order to control the building of matrices with controlled mechanical or nutritional properties.
The main scientific objective of this project is to establish the relationships between the structure, mechanical properties and diffusional properties of gluten. More specifically, we will determine the influence of gluten protein hydration state on their organisation from the supramolecular to the macroscopic scale, on their rheological properties and on the mobility of colloidal fluorescent probes in the matrix. The study will allow us to establish the conditions leading to the dynamical arrest of the system (protein composition, hydratation state, spatial variation of the correlation length).
2. Methodologies and program
Methodologies:
Different protein systems (variable gliadins/glutenins ratios) will be set to thermodynamic equilibrium at different hydratation levels applying external osmotic pressures, through dialysis against synthetic polymer solutions. The structure of the different systems will be determined using spectroscopic methods such as SAXS and USAXS. The compacity of systems will be indirectly evaluated by confocal microscopy (FRAP method; measurement of diffusion rates of fluorescent probes with known hydrodynamic radius). The obtained data will be compared to direct measurements of interstitial volumes by granulo-polarimetry, which principle is based on the analysis of incoherent transport of polarized light. The functionality of systems will be determined by creep and oscillation rheological measurements.
Program:
Each stage of the program will be preceded by a specific bibliography.
- months 0-12: The Ph.D. student will determine the phase diagrams osmotic pressure-water content of different gliadins/glutenins mixtures, depending on the physico-chemical environment (ionic strength, pH). In parallel, rheological propertie of the different systems will be studied.
- months 13-15: Paper writing on the data obtained
- months 15-19: Development and validation of the confocal microscopic method in FRAP mode, including the search of fluorescent probes, with appropriate sizes, stability and quantic yield, the adjustment of microscope in terms of resolution, signal/noise ratio and gain, as well as image analysis.
- months 20-32: The previous method will be used on the same systems than those studied during the first Ph.D year. Granulo-polarimetric measurements will be carried out. In parallel, the structure of systems will be studied using SAXS and USAXS.
- months 32-36 mois: Ph.D and papers writing
Contact: Pr. C. Sanchez, tel: +33 4 99 61 20 85, mail: Christian.Sanchez@supagro.inra.fr; UMR Ingénierie des Agro-Polymères et Technologies Emergentes (IATE), 2, place Pierre Viala, 34060 Montpellier cedex 1, France.

France - PhD position at INRIA Grenoble - Rhone-Alpes

PhD position at INRIA Grenoble - Rhone-Alpes, France STOCHASTIC MODELING AND IDENTIFICATION OF GENE EXPRESSION DYNAMICS USING FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOP

A PhD position in the field of genetic network modelling opens at INRIA
Grenoble -Rhone-Alpes (France). The thesis focuses on the stochastic modelling
and identification of gene expression dynamics at the cell level based on
time-lapse fluorescence microscopy data. 

Models and identification algorithms
will be developed and tested by simulation and by application to the study of
gene expression in enterobacterium Escherichia coli. The research activity will
be conducted within the IBIS group (http://ibis.inrialpes.fr), in tight
collaboration with the experimental biology lab of Hans Geiselmann at the
Université Joseph Fourier.

The project is well suited to graduates/masters with
a background in system/control theory, computer science and probability theory,
working knowledge of scientific programming tools (e.g., Matlab, Scilab, C, ...)
and a strong interest in biological applications. Initial gross income is
1947,80 € / month. Knowledge of French is not requested.

Application deadline is 04/05/2010. Additional information can be found at
http://www.inria.fr/travailler/opportunites/doc.en.html (Thesis offer no 207).

Interested candidates should contact:
Eugenio Cinquemani: eugenio.cinquemani@inria.fr
Hidde de Jong: hidde.de-jong@inria.fr

France: Master 2 Scholarships in Particle Physics at Clermont-Ferrand

Master Scholarships for the Master in Particle Physics at Université BlaisePascal (1), Clermont-Ferrand, France

The 2nd year of the Master of Physics at Clermont-Ferrand1 welcomes students from France and abroad, provided they have passed the Master 1 exams, or possess the background expected after 4 years of Physics. To promote mobility and excellence, a number of 5,000 euros fellowships have been opened this year to the best candidates satisfying high level academic criteria.

Teaching program:

-200 hours of advanced lectures in particle physics include: field theory, symmetries in Physics, particle physics detectors, Quantum Electro-Dynamics, Quantum Chromo-Dynamics, Electro-Weak Standard Model. Part of the lectures are given in english; a good command of both the French and English languages is required.

-5 months of research training in a research laboratory. The LPC (Laboratoire de Physique Corpusculaire) of Clermont is one of the 18 laboratories of the French Institute for Particle Physics of the CNRS (IN2P3). Research is conducted in world-wide Particle Physics facilities, such as CERN (Geneva) or Fermilab (Chicago). For instance, research teams of the laboratory, which regularly host research trainings at the Master and PhD level, are involved in 3 of the four experiments at the Large Hadron Collider, both for instrumental developments of detectors and for the Physics analysis.

Research opportunities:
The Master diploma of the Blaise Pascal University allows holders to apply for any PhD fellowship in High Energy Physics in Europe and in the world (US, Japan). Typically 3 or 4 PhD fellowships are available each year at the Blaise Pascal University for the students having passed the Master of Physics.

Application procedure:
Applications should be sent by mail, before the 1st of May 2010 at the following address:
Michèle Chadelas, secrétariat du Master de Physique,
Laboratoire de Physique Corpusculaire (LPC), Université Blaise Pascal,
24 Avenue des Landais, 63177 Aubière Cedex.
http://www.univ-bpclermont.fr/FORMATIONS/Master/physique/

and should contain the same documents as for Master admission:
a filled registration form (available from the web site);
a statement of purpose;
a detailed CV (resume);
a copy of the passport with the photograph;
detailed transcripts of University grades for the last 3 years of study and the copies of the last diploma obtained (with a certified translation when necessary);
a recommendation letter from one close professor (confidential, in a sealed envelope);
a Campus France number (for foreign students), proving that the visa application is under way (2);

(1)The University of Clermont-Ferrand has a tradition dating back to the XIIth century. In the XXth century it was named after the famous Physicist, Mathematician, and Philosopher Blaise Pascal, who was born in Clermont-Ferrand and established the atmospheric pressure in the surrounding mountains. The University counts about 14000 students, including 2000 foreigners.

(2)Campus France is a facility which depends on french embassies or consulates, aimed at helping and centralizing the application for studying in France. http://www.campusfrance.org

France: PhD Position in Biology and Cancer 2010

REGULATION OF ION CHANNELS IN CARCINOGENESIS
France: PhD Position in Biology and Cancer 2010

PhD position (CNRS/PACA funding) available from September 2010 in the Institute of
Developmental Biology and Cancer (UNSA CNRS UMR 6543), in the group of
Dr Franck Borgese at the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis / CNRS, Nice, France.

Thesis supervisor: Dr Olivier Soriani
Our project will focus on the regulation of ion channels involved in
cancer cell behaviour
(apoptosis resistance, extra cellular matrix adhesion and degradation,
motility, proliferation).
Recently, we have demonstrated that a unique tumour biomarker, the
sigma-1 receptor
(Sig1R), was functionally associated to Cl- and K+ channels in lung cancer and leukaemia
cells. We have shown that the over-expression of Sig1R in cancer cells
enhances cell
apoptotic resistance through a decrease of volume-regulated Cl- channels activation kinetics
(Renaudo et al., 2007;
Le Guennec et al., 2008). Moreover, exogenous
sigma ligands inhibit
cell cycle through a K+ channel / p27kip1-dependent
pathway (Renaudo et al. 2004).

The project will deal on the molecular mechanisms associating the Sig1R
to ion channels
aberrantly expressed in leukaemia and breast cancer cells, in relation
to their
aggressiveness state. Finally, in vivo significance of the
described mechanisms will be
explored in a mouse metastatic model.

Main technical approaches: Molecular cell biology, genetics, microscopy
imagery and
electrophysiology (patch-clamp).

We are seeking highly talented and self-motivated candidates. A
background in the field of
electrophysiology and cell physiology will be appreciated. The position
will be available on
September 2010.

Candidates are invited to obtain application forms from soriani@unice.fr or borgese@unice.fr
Application deadline: Friday 30th April.
Provisional date for auditions of short listed candidates: Monday 17th
May
Références:
· Martial,S., Giorgelli,J.L.,
Renaudo,A., Derijard,B., and Soriani,O. (2008). SP600125 inhibits Kv
channels through a JNK-independent pathway in cancer cells. Biochem.
Biophys. Res.
Commun. 366, 944-950
· Renaudo,A., L’Hoste,S.,
Guizouarn,H., Borgese,F., and Soriani,O. (2007). Cancer cell cycle
modulated by a functional coupling between sigma receptors and Cl- channels. J. Biol. Chem.
282, 2259-2267.
· Le Guennec,J.Y., Ouadid-Ahidouch,H.,
Soriani,O., Besson,P., Ahidouch,A., and Vandier,C.
(2007). Voltage-gated ion channels, new targets in anti-cancer research. Recent Patents
Anticancer Drug Discov. 2, 189-202.
· Renaudo,A., Watry,V., Chassot,A.A.,
Ponzio,G., Ehrenfeld,J., and Soriani,O. (2004). Inhibition
of tumor cell proliferation by sigma ligands is associated with K+ Channel inhibition and
p27kip1
accumulation. J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 311, 1105-1114.

CLOSTNET- 22 Exciting PhD Opportunities Across Europe

22 EXCITING PhD RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES IN CLOSTRIDIA
ACROSS 7 EU MEMBER STATES
Marie Curie Initial Training Network (CLOSTNET) on the molecular biology of pathogenic and non-pathogenic Clostridium species: Nottingham, Exeter, Rostock, Munich, Helsinki, Maribor, Rome, Marseille, Boxmeer, Toulouse, Cambridge

Early Stage Researchers
Early Stage Researchers (predoctoral) fellowships are available across seven Member States with the CLOSTNET Marie Curie Training Network (ITN) http://www.clostridia.net/clostnet-intro.html
The genus Clostridium is a large and important group of bacteria, from both a medical and industrial perspective. Thus:
1) Clostridium difficile is now one of Europe’s most important causes of hospital infection.
2) Clostridium perfringens is causing devastation in the European poultry industry.
3) Clostridium botulinum continues to fuel public concerns over its misuse by bioterrorists.
4) Clostridium acetobutylicum offers hope in potential sustainable biofuel production.
5) Clostridium sporogenes & C. novyi offer novel cures for treating cancer.
As a consequence, there is an urgent need to better understand the basic biology of these important bacteria to counter the diseases they cause and exploit their potential benefits. Using cutting edge technology and pulling together the expertise from centres of excellence across Europe, “CLOSTNET” aims to meet this need. This four year, £5 million project is funded by the EU Marie Curie FP7 People Programme and involves academic and industrial partners from seven European Member States. Specific workpackages will focus on: (i) Global Gene Regulation; (ii) Spore Formation and Germination; (iii) Secretion of Pathogenic Determinants and Hydrolytic Enzymes; (iv) Metabolism, and; (v) Genome Plasticity. The programme will include five workshops and two open Clostridia conferences.
CLOSTNET represents a unique opportunity for a total of 22 researchers of any nationality or country of residence to pursue a PhD based at one of these centres of excellence (two students per centre). Each PhD will be for 36 months and will involve up to six months secondment to a partner laboratory.
Each of the 11 Partners will take on 2 students each, ie., 22 in total.
Fellows will be expected to begin their studies no later than 31st August 2010.
For more details please see:
http://www.clostridia.net/clostnet-intro.html
Please apply online at:
https://clostridia2.nottingham.ac.uk/

[France] 50 Phd thesis offers in 2010 at INRIA

Do you want to prepare a doctoral thesis and carry out valuable research in the field of information and communication science and technology or in a related field? In 2010, INRIA is offering young scientists the chance to join one of its research teams. Priority will be given to candidates with experience of mobility and in subjects within the scope of the institute’s priority subject areas.
INRIA’S MAIN RESEARCH FIELDS

• Applied mathematics, computation and simulation
• Algorithmics, programming, software and architecture
• Networks, systems and services, distributed computing
• Perception, cognition, interaction
• Computational Sciences for Biology, Medicine and the Environment

Application conditions

• You must have a Master’s in computer science, control or scientific calculation, or an equivalent diploma;
• All nationalities may apply
• You must submit an application for each subject proposed by the host research centre.

Tentative Application Deadline : 4 May 2010
Further details at http://www.inria.fr/travailler/opportunites/doc.en.html

PhD Position, Institute of Developmental Biology and Cancer, University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, France

Thesis supervisor: Dr Olivier Soriani

Our project will focus on the regulation of ion channels involved in cancer cell behaviour (apoptosis resistance, extra cellular matrix adhesion and degradation, motility, proliferation). Recently, we have demonstrated that a unique tumour biomarker, the sigma-1 receptor (Sig1R), was functionally associated to Cl- and K+ channels in lung cancer and leukaemia cells. We have shown that the over-expression of Sig1R in cancer cells enhances cell apoptotic resistance through a decrease of volume-regulated Cl- channels activation kinetics (Renaudo et al., 2007; Le Guennec et al., 2008). Moreover, exogenous sigma ligands inhibit cell cycle through a K+ channel / p27kip1-dependent pathway (Renaudo et al. 2004).

The project will deal on the molecular mechanisms associating the Sig1R to ion channels aberrantly expressed in leukaemia and breast cancer cells, in relation to their aggressiveness state. Finally, in vivo significance of the described mechanisms will be explored in a mouse metastatic model.

Main technical approaches:
Molecular cell biology, genetics, microscopy imagery and electrophysiology (patch-clamp).

We are seeking highly talented and self-motivated candidates. A background in the field of electrophysiology and cell physiology will be appreciated. The position will be available on September 2010.

Candidates are invited to obtain application forms from soriani[at]unice.fr or borgese[at]unice.fr

Application deadline: Friday 30 April.
Provisional date for auditions of short listed candidates: Monday 17 May

References:

• Martial,S., Giorgelli,J. L., Renaudo,A., Derijard,B., and Soriani,O. (2008). SP600125 inhibits Kv channels through a JNK-independent pathway in cancer cells. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 366, 944-950
• Renaudo,A., L`Hoste,S., Guizouarn,H. , Borgese,F., and Soriani,O. (2007). Cancer cell cycle modulated by a functional coupling between sigma receptors and Cl- channels. J. Biol. Chem. 282, 2259-2267.
• Le Guennec,J.Y. , Ouadid-Ahidouch, H., Soriani,O., Besson,P., Ahidouch,A., and Vandier,C. (2007). Voltage-gated ion channels, new targets in anti-cancer research. Recent Patents Anticancer Drug Discov. 2, 189-202.
• Renaudo,A., Watry,V., Chassot,A.A. , Ponzio,G., Ehrenfeld,J. , and Soriani,O. (2004). Inhibition of tumor cell proliferation by sigma ligands is associated with K+ Channel inhibition and p27kip1 accumulation. J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 311, 1105-1114.

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19 PhD positions in Agricultural Sciences, INRA, France

19 PhD positions in Agricultural Sciences, INRA, France


Research training positions

Approximately 1800 PhD students are hosted in INRA's research units.


Doctoral students are a vital part of the scientific production of the Institute. The research units which host them carry out their role of training in and through research.



Each year, more than 500 doctoral students join INRA, all remunerated on contracts and in most cases associated with various private and public partners.



INRA is proposing special contracts in 2010



These contracts offer doctoral students particularly attractive conditions in terms of the duration of the contract and remuneration:



Recruitment of Associate Scientists on Contract



Associate Scientists on Contract (ASC) are recruited to carry out a thesis at INRA on subjects combining modelling and agronomic issues.



Young Scientist Contracts



The Young Scientist Contract aims at students who wish to carry out a PhD at INRA and begin a career in research. Its specificity lies in that it involves a partnership between INRA and a graduate sch



http://www.international.inra.fr/join_us/positions/research_training_positions



http://ec.europa.eu/euraxess/index_en.cfm?l1=1&l2=1&l3=1&idjob=33448777&CFID=1278642& CFTOKEN=c87368ec896c8198-A71E254D-A78A-5689-864B045F3A150BA0

Postdoc: Ion Channels, Receptors and Biosensors

Postdoc: Ion Channels, Receptors and Biosensors

Postdoctoral Position

Ion Channels, Receptors, and Biosensors
Institut de Biologie Structurale, Grenoble

A postdoctoral position is available in the Laboratory of Membrane Proteins of the Institute for Structural Biology (IBS) in Grenoble, France (www.ibs.fr) 

We have devised a novel type of bio-inspired sensors, Ion-Channel Coupled Receptors
(ICCR), based on the fusion of receptors with an ion channel. Binding of a ligand to
the receptor triggers opening of the associated ion channel that is easily detectable using standard electrophysiologica l techniques. This concept was validated by the creation of ICCRs between a potassium channel and several G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR).

In collaboration with biochemists, bioinformaticians, and computer scientists, we
are now pursuing this work in several intertwined directions: structure-function study of receptor-channel interactions in existing ICCRs, design and construction of new ICCRs, mechanism of protein-protein interactions in natural ICCRs such as the K-ATP channel. Although the project has obvious biotechnological applications, the approach shall remain very fundamental with a strong focus on the structure and dynamics of membrane proteins and on their interactions.

References:
Moreau et al (2008) Nature Nanotech. 3:620-5 Vivaudou et al (2009) Structure and function of ATP-sensitive K+ channels In: Ion Channels: From Structure to Function, Ed. J Kew & C Davies, Oxford University Press Hosy et al (2010) J Biol Chem (in press)

We are looking for a motivated individual with a demonstrated experience in molecular
engineering and biophysics. A knowledge of electrophysiologica l recordings,
bioinformatics and/or membrane proteins will be an asset. At least one peer-reviewed
publication in a recognized international journal is absolutely required. This position is available for 3 years starting as soon as possible, with possibility of a 1 year prolongation. Salary after tax ~2100EUR/month (~3000 US$). The project is funded by the French Research Agency ANR. Send CV with references to Dr Michel Vivaudou (e-mail: vivaudou@ibs.fr)

Indonesian Scholarship Darmasiswa RI Program Academic Year 2010 / 2011

Indonesian Scholarship
Darmasiswa RI Program
Academic Year 2010 / 2011

DARMASISWA is a scholarship program offered to all foreign students from countries which have diplomatic relationship with Indonesia to study Bahasa Indonesia, arts, music and crafts. Participants can choose one of 45 different universities located in different cities in Indonesia. This program is organized by the Ministry of National Education (MoNE) in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The DARMASISWA program was started in 1974 as part of ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) initiative, admitting only students from ASEAN. However, in 1976 this program was extended to include students from other countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and USA. In early 90’s, this program was extended further to include all countries which have diplomatic relationship with Indonesia. Until to date, the number of countries participating in this program is more than 75 countries.

The main purpose of the DARMASISWA program is to promote and increase the interest in the language and culture of Indonesia among the youth of other countries. It has also been designed to provide stronger cultural links and understanding among participating countries.

Darmasiswa RI Program is conducted in 2 schemes, i.e :

• Regular 1 (One) Year -Darmasiswa RI scholarship Program
  Regular One Year program is a one-year scholarship program offered to foreign students from countries which have diplomatic relationship with Indonesia to study Indonesian language and Art (traditional music, traditional dance, and Indonesian craft) in selected Indonesian Higher Education Institutions.
• Regular 6 (Six) Months – Darmasiswa RI scholarship Program
  Regular six-month program is a six-month scholarship program offered to foreign students from countries which have diplomatic relationship with Indonesia to study Indonesian language in selected Indonesian Higher Education Institutions.

The Scholarship Covers
Monthly allowance will be received by participant is Rp 1.500.000,00 (one million and five hundred thousand rupiah), and will be transferred to the University/college where they study.

The participant is advised to bring enough money in US dollar for unexpected additional expenses in Indonesia.

QUALIFICATIONS OF APPLICANTS

• Fill out application form
• Not more than 35 years old
• Completed secondary education or its equivalent
• Copy of academic transcript
• In good health as proved by Medical Certificate
• Passport size color photograph (5 pieces)
• Full-page copy of passport valid for at least 18 months from time of arrival in Indonesia
• Able to communicate in English and have a basic knowledge of the field they’re applying for

PROCEDURE
The applicant should apply through the following procedures:

• Indonesian Embassy/Consulate General in the country of residence.
• Visit the website at: www.darmasiswa.diknas.go.id, applicants should notify to the Indonesian Embassy/Consulate General before applying online.

The documents of applicants who have been selected by the Indonesian Embassy will be submitted to the Bureau of Planning and International Cooperation, Ministry of National Education or the Directorate of Public Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed:

Head Bureau of Planning and International Cooperation
Secretariat General
Department of National Education
Jalan Jenderal Sudirman,
Senayan-Jakarta
Telp./Fax. (62-21) 5724707, 5738181
Website: http://darmasiswa.diknas.go.id
and mail to : darmasiswa_pkln@diknas.go.id

or

Director of Public Diplomacy
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Jalan Taman Pejambon No. 6
Jakarta
Telp. (62-21) 3813480,
Fax. (62-21) 3858035

Health Insurance
The Ministry of National Education (MoNE) will not provide health insurance; therefore the participants are expected to have the International insurance.

Click here to apply for this scholarship.

Europe: PhD Scholarships in Functional Materials Science, Erasmus Mundus

PhD Scholarships in Functional Materials Science, Erasmus Mundus, Europe
IDS-FunMat is an International Doctoral Programme in Functional Materials funded by the ERASMUS MUNDUS Programme of the European Union.
The school offers scholarships for PhD projects in Functional Materials Science, carried out in co-supervision between universities from two different countries (see list of partners). In most projects an industry partner is also involved. The PhD candidates must spend at least 6 months in each university. The projects start around October and take 3-4 years.

The European Union finances each year a number of ERASMUS MUNDUS PhD scholarships in the school, and in addition we have PhD projects funded by other sources.
For more information, please visit the official announcement.

France - Post-doctoral position Mechanosensitive channels in plants

A 24-month post-doctoral position in the area of ion channel physiology funded by the French

National Research Agency (ANR) is available starting April 2010. The host group “Membrane

Transporters and Signalling Laboratory” http://www.isv.cnrs-gif.fr/isv/recherche/hbb/hbb.html)

belong to the “Institut des Sciences du Végétal” (ISV) located on the CNRS campus of Gif sur

Yvette, at 30 km south west of Paris.

Although plants respond to a wide variety of mechanical stimuli, and many mechanosensitive

channel activities have been characterized in plant membranes using the patch-clamp method, the

molecular nature of mechanoperception in plant systems has remained elusive. We recently showed

that the MSL9 and MSL10 proteins relatives of the E. coli MscS (Mechanosensitive channel of

Small conductance) might function cooperatively and provide mechanosensitive channel activities

at the plasma membrane of Arabidopsis root cells (Curr. Biol., 18: 730-734, 2008; Plant Signaling

& Behavior, 3: 726-729, 2008).



The first objective of the project is to characterize the electrophysiological properties of MSL9,

MSL10 and other members of the MSL family (homologous system and bilayer). This part will be

done in close collaboration with A. Ghazi ’s lab (IBBMC, Orsay). The second objective will be to

enlighten the functions of the MSL channels as sensor of vibrations in aerial part of the plant. This

will be conducted by a multidisciplinary approach involving, electrophysiology, molecular biology

and modelling in cooperation with other partners of the project.

Salary ~ 2000€/month



Applicants should hold a PhD and have a good experience in electrophysiology and, possibly, in

molecular biology. A background in plant biology would be an added value but is not required.

English but not French is required.



Candidates should send a CV with a brief summary of research experience, a list of publications

and the names and addresses of 3 contact information referees to Jean-Marie Frachisse

(frachisse@isv.cnrs-gif.fr).

institu t des sciences du végétal

Europe: Master Scholarships in European Literary Cultures, Erasmus Mundus

Master Scholarships in European Literary Cultures, Erasmus Mundus, Europe

we are pleased to inform you that for the academic years 2010-2012 the ERASMUS MUNDUS Master Course in European Literary Cultures – CLE offers many EU funded scholarships for Third country nationals with excellent academic  records:

• students: up to € 24.000 / year
• scholars: up to € 14.800 for a maximum of 3 months researching period.

The online Application deadline for students is DECEMBER 20, 2009.
The paper Application Form together with all paper documents required must reach the CLE by JANUARY 10, 2010.
The Application deadline for scholars is APRIL 20, 2010.

A detailed description of the Master’s Course is available on the web site: www.cle.unibo.it
The ERASMUS MUNDUS PROGRAMME is a co-operation and mobility programme in the field of higher education. It aims to enhance quality in European higher education and to promote intercultural understanding through co-operation with European and NON-European countries.
The CLE Consortium includes four primary European universities in the field of European literary studes : Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, ITALY (project coordinator); Université de Haute-Alsace (Mulhouse), FRANCE; Université de Strasbourg, FRANCE; Aristoteleion Panepistimion Thessaloniki, GREECE.
During the full-time programme (24 months), european and non-european students will have a fantastic opportunity to join an exciting educational environment by spending terms in two or three different consortium universities. The language of instruction varies according to the institutions chosen by the students.
At the end of the Master Course, the consortium universities provide a double or multiple degree.
European and international students applying for the Master Course CLE must have a good level first-cycle degree in a discipline of relevance to CLE, a recognised level of proficiency in English and in the language of instruction of the consortium institution chosen for the first Master year course.
We’ll be very grateful if you could disseminate the information about the Master Course to interested students and scholars or/and interested Institutions.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further details or flyers ERASMUS MUNDUS CLE to be sent.
ERASMUS MUNDUS CLE Secretariat: Dott.ssa Lucia Manservisi
Università di Bologna
Dipartimento di Lingue e Letterature Straniere Moderne
Via Cartoleria, 5
40124 Bologna - Italia
t +39 051 2097230
f +39 051 264722
lmanser[ at ]lingue.unibo.it
http://www.cle.unibo.it