Doctoral contract on the FISH'N STRESS project

Job Details

You will join UMR1419 Nutrition Metabolism Aquaculture, based in Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle (64). The team's work aims to better understand the links between the diet, physiology and performance of farmed fish in order to develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Scientific context

Climate change represents a major challenge for aquaculture, particularly due to increasing temperatures and decreasing oxygen availability in aquatic environments. In rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), these environmental constraints can disrupt metabolism, cellular homeostasis and physiological performance. In this context, understanding the molecular mechanisms of adaptation to stress constitutes an essential issue for developing nutritional strategies likely to improve the robustness of fish.

Objectives of the thesis

The FISH'N STRESS project aims to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the response of rainbow trout, particularly to heat stress. The objective will be to evaluate the implication of the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) then to identify nutritional levers likely to strengthen the resistance of fish to these environmental constraints.

Methodology

The thesis will combine in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches. Cellular models of trout will be used to characterize responses to heat stress, using cellular, molecular and biochemical biology approaches. Pharmacological modulation and genome editing strategies by CRISPR-Cas9 will be developed to evaluate the role of pathways involved in the stress response.

The work will focus in particular on stress signaling pathways, cellular metabolism, protein homeostasis, mitochondrial functions and mechanisms of cell survival or death. Experiments on fish will then make it possible to evaluate the interest of nutritional strategies to improve their response to environmental constraints.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a Master 2 (or equivalent diploma) in cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, animal physiology or a related discipline.

A good command of laboratory techniques, a marked interest in experimental research and skills in analysis and interpretation of scientific data are expected. Experience in cell culture, molecular biology or study of signaling pathways will be an asset.

The project also requires scientific rigor, autonomy, team spirit and a good ability to communicate in English. Previous experience in fish biology or aquaculture is not essential.

A driving license is required, with occasional travel planned between the different experimental sites.

Contact Information

Deadline : 11/22/2026