The heart functions in two parallel but asymmetric circuits, in which the right and left ventricles drive the pulmonary and systemic circulations, respectively. In the heterotaxy syndrome, abnormal left-right patterning of the embryo leads to a spectrum of severe structural heart defects, the heterogeneity of which remains puzzling. Whereas the molecular cascade breaking the bilateral symmetry of the early embryo has been well characterised, how asymmetry is sensed by organ-specific precursor cells to control organogenesis remains poorly understood. The Meilhac lab uses mouse as a model to elucidate basic mechanisms of asymmetric heart morphogenesis, uncover novel genetic players and explore how this relates to congenital heart defects in patients. Previous work in the lab has characterized mouse models of heterotaxy and generated a large transcriptomic dataset to screen for novel asymmetric factors. A challenge is to understand their function at specific asymmetric steps of heart morphogenesis. The project will exploit interdisciplinary expertise at the forefront of developmental biology, computational science and pediatric cardiology. Using cutting-edge technologies in omics, mouse genetics and quantitative 3D imaging, the project will provide novel insights into basic morphogenesis mechanisms, while deciphering pathological processes in the heart, potentially relevant to other asymmetric visceral organs.
Location : Our lab is located at the Institut Imagine, within the hospital Necker-Enfant Malades, and is part of the Dept of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology of the Institut Pasteur, which together offers a vibrant multidisciplinary and international research environment with state-of-the art technological platforms, downtown Paris.
Expected profile : After a PhD in Life Sciences, you have a strong interest in developmental biology. Your previous research experience is solid in molecular biology or genetics. You value animal models. You work with rigour and creativity and enjoy team work.
The postdoctoral position is funded for 3 years by the FRM and is open asap. To apply, please send a coverletter, CV and contact details of 3 references
You haven’t included a message. Providing a specific message means universities will take your enquiry more seriously and helps them provide the information you need. Why not add a message here
* required field
Send a copy to me for my own records.
Email Sent
We use cookies to create a better experience for you
To ensure all features on our website work properly, your computer, tablet or mobile needs to accept cookies. Our cookies don’t store your personal information, but provide us with anonymous information about use of the website and help us recognise you so we can offer you services more relevant to you. For more information please read our privacy policy
