Job Details
Your mission will be to contribute to the optimization of broodstock and fry diets by integrating sustainable ingredients such as tuna cannery by-products. The main objective will be to elucidate selenium (Se) metabolism in rainbow trout fry from broodstock fed these alternative diets for six months before spawning. These diets will be compared to more conventional formulations based on wild fish meal or plant proteins. Particular attention will be paid to antioxidant selenoproteins and their interactions with mercury (Hg). This will involve direct work on cryosections of fry using advanced immunohistochemistry methods developed within the project. This innovative approach will allow the molecular mapping of selenoproteins and their interactions with Hg, in order to define specific molecular fingerprints. Ultimately, the objective is to evaluate the impact of Se-enriched diets and to improve our understanding of Se–Hg interactions in the context of sustainable aquaculture feeding. You will be particularly responsible for
- To identify and characterize selenium chemical species in the tissues of trout fry from broodstock fed Se-enriched diets, including spatial mapping of selenoproteins by immunohistochemistry on tissue sections.
- To study Se–Hg interactions in the tissues of trout fry exposed to mercury via dietary supplementation, with the aim of understanding how mercury may affect the distribution or function of selenoproteins.
- To analyze selenium metabolism and antioxidant responses in trout fry using molecular (e.g., RT-PCR) and biochemical (e.g., enzyme activities) analyses.
Feeding trials for broodstock and fry will be conducted at INRAE's experimental facilities located in Lées-Athas and Donzacq (Nouvelle-Aquitaine region). Regular travel to these sites will be required for sample collection. A valid driver's license would be an asset.
Requirements
Training and skills sought Doctorate Recommended training: Doctorate in aquaculture or animal nutrition obtained less than 3 years ago at the start date. Desired knowledge: Fish physiology, reproduction and larval development, mineral nutrition (especially selenium), antioxidant metabolism, molecular biology and histology.Preferred experience: Previous work in fish experimentation and/or experience in tissue analysis (e.g., histology, immunohistochemistry), molecular and biochemical approaches.Skills sought: Scientific enthusiasm and curiosity, autonomy, scientific rigor, interpersonal skills and communication skills, organizational skills, strong interest in experimental work and scientific writing in English.
Contact Information
The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE)https://jobs.inrae.fr/ot-27073
stephanie.fontagne-dicharry@inrae.fr
Post Date: 8/22/2025 9:12:45 AM
Closing Date: 9/5/2025 12:00:00 AM
