Work environment: The successful candidate will join a dynamic research group working on the ecology and evolution of host–parasite–environment interactions in non-model organisms, particularly snail vectors and its trematode parasites. She/He will conduct genomic analyses aimed at understanding host–parasite coevolution and the genetic architecture of resistance in the invasive snail Pseudosuccinea columella to the zoonotic parasite Fasciola hepatica. This thematic line is embedded within the regional scientific project InvaSnail financed by the ExposUM initiative from the Montpellier. The position is based in Montpellier, a vibrant scientific hub in Southern France internationally recognized for excellence in ecology and evolutionary biology. The IHPE laboratory provides a collaborative research environment with access to high-performance computing facilities, sequencing platforms, and strong interdisciplinary interactions across research institutions in the Montpellier area. University
Researcher profile: The postdoctoral researcher will conduct genome sequencing, high-quality genome assembly, comparative genomics analyses, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify genomic regions involved in resistance. A PhD in genomics, evolutionary or computational biology, or a related field with strong experience in GWAS are required. Proficiency in scripting (e.g., Python, R, Bash), experience with bioinformatics tools for assembly, variant calling, and comparative analyses, experience handling and processing large-scale genomic datasets are also required. Strong publication record relative to career stage, excellent written and oral communication skills in English are a must. Autonomy, strong work ethic and team-playing, strong time-management skills and scientific creativity are expected, as well as the ability to structure and develop research directions
Activities : To lead the genomic component of the research project: optimization of high-molecular-weight DNA extraction, long-read genome assembly (PacBio HiFi / ONT), genome polishing and quality assessment (BUSCO, QUAST), structural and functional annotation, variant discovery (SNPs, indels, SVs); To lead the comparative genomic approach: mixed-model GWAS accounting for structure, workflow development (Snakemake/Nextflow), HPC-based pipeline implementation; to publish results in peer-reviewed journals and to present findings at international conferences, to collaborate with experimental and computational team members and to contribute to project development and to mentor graduate students when appropriate
Starting Date: 1 June 2026; Duration : 2 years-contract (Full-time)
How to Apply: Candidates must send a CV (up to 3 pages), a cover letter containing a clear explanation of why the advertised postdoctoral position aligns with their interests and professional trajectory, an honest assessment of personal strengths and weaknesses, and what they hope to gain from this position and how it will support their long-term development as a scientist, a PDF of a first-author publication (published or in press), and 3 references to annia.alba-menendez@umontpellier.fr before April 20th, 2026
Website Link : Recrutements – IHPE « Interactions Hôtes-Pathogènes-Environnements »
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