A postdoc position is available at Institut Pasteur in Paris to study the effects of pathogens on mosquito behavior. The project is a collaboration between the Insect-Virus Interactions unit (Louis Lambrechts & Felix Hol) and the Decision and Bayesian Computation unit (Jean-Baptiste Masson & Christian Vestergaard). We are looking for an interdisciplinary postdoctoral researcher to join our efforts to develop novel computational and experimental tools to characterize how pathogen infections shape mosquito blood-feeding behavior.
Project background: Blood-feeding behavior is a central component of a mosquito’s capacity to transmit a pathogen. An important factor that may shape biting and host finding dynamics is the pathogen itself, e.g. by changing the biting frequency or altering the accuracy of host finding. Altered feeding dynamics may strongly impact transmission dynamics, yet despite its relevance for pathogen transmission, it is unclear how infections affect blood feeding. To investigate the mosquito decision process, the successful candidate will leverage novel behavioral assays, quantitative imaging, and statistical modeling to gain a quantitative understanding of virus transmission dynamics, and the behavioral mechanisms that make mosquitoes such deadly efficient vectors.
Profile: A recent PhD and relevant research experience. Relevant backgrounds include, but are not limited to, (quantitative) biology, biophysics, neurobiology, bioengineering, ecology & evolution, or a related discipline. The project combines machine learning, mosquito biology, quantitative imaging, and other techniques and concepts. The ideal candidate therefore has an open and creative mind-set, strong analytical skills (including coding in Python), and a passion for solving problems using unconventional approaches. Strong communication skills and English proficiency are required. Prior experience with mosquito research is not required, love for the topic of research and a strong motivation are.
Position: The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. The expected start date is early 2022. The position is initially for 1 year, with the possibility of extension. Salary is commensurate with experience according to the institutional guidelines.
To apply: Please send a single pdf file containing a CV, a cover letter summarizing research interests and career goals, and contact information of 2 (or more) references to: felix.hol@pasteur.fr