The Laboratory of Humoral Response to Pathogens in the Immunology Department at the Institut Pasteur – Paris has one postdoctoral position opening. The lab works on exciting projects aiming to understand the molecular basis of virus-specific B-cell responses, with a focus on how antibodies may participate in controlling human viral infections.
Projects outline: Our understanding of pathogen-specific B-cell responses has increased substantially in recent years with the advent of modern technologies that allow the generation of monoclonal antibodies derived from single B-cells. The power of these new technologies is highlighted by the breakthrough discoveries that have been made in the antiviral responses to rapidly changing pathogens such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Influenza virus. Our research group aims to study the human antibody responses to viruses such as HIV-1 and Arboviruses by generating and characterizing envelope-specific antibodies from infected patients using an efficient method to clone and express immunoglobulins from single human B cells. These recombinant antibodies represent unique “fingerprints” for each B-cell clone and when characterized on a molecular level, provide crucial information about the antigen-specific humoral response to a given pathogen. In addition to the antibodies’ potential therapeutic interest, their characterization will lead to a better understanding of human antibody responses to pathogens, and may uncover candidate immunogens for vaccine development. Candidate requirements: Applicants should have a strong background in Human B-cell Biology, and Molecular Immunology, be highly motivated to work in a competitive field, and be willing to tackle intellectual/technical challenges. Technical experience in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry is highly recommended. Alternatively, biologists having experiences on structural and biophysical analyses of antibodies are also strongly recommended to apply. The candidate should speak English fluently. To apply: Applicants should send their CV, a motivation letter and 3 references to hugo.mouquet@pasteur.fr