Engineer or researcher position to explore genomic architecture of disease resistance in Crasso[...]

Engineer or Researcher Position to Explore Genomic Architecture of Disease Resistance in Crassostrea gigas (M/F)

Deadline for Applications: March 3rd 2025

Presentation of the Host Structure

The ASIM unit (Amélioration et Santé des Invertébrés Marins - Improvement and Health of Marine Invertebrates), located at the La Tremblade station, focuses on developing skills and acquiring knowledge in the field of the health of species of interest in marine aquaculture, with a particular emphasis on bivalve molluscs, interactions with associated pathogenic organisms, and the genetic basis of responses implemented by protagonists evolving in an open and changing environment.

Our team conducts research into recurrent mass mortalities affecting the Crassostrea gigas oysters. Particular attention has been paid to resistance to infection by OsHV-1 and Vibrio aestuarianus, the two major pathogens affecting the French oyster farming industry. As part of the Newtechaqua project, experimental infections were carried out on a batch of 100 oyster families produced by our team at the marine mollusc platform at La Tremblade. Several QTLs associated with OsHV-1 resistance and coinfection have been identified.

As part of an innovative European project named Shellfishboost, the objectives are to carry out complementary analyses for vibriosis and to participate in the development of a new genotyping chip to refine the position of current QTLs, and detect new ones.

Main Missions

The candidate will:

1. Select new samples for genotyping from dead and survivors of experimental infection.
2. Participate in the detection and quantification of the virus and bacteria in dead oysters.
3. Analyze the new genotyping data (medium density array) along with previously collected data.
4. Perform pedigree analysis, GBLUP, PBLUP, and GWAS.
5. Genotype parents using the new high density SNP array and perform imputation for all samples genotyped with the medium density array to refine the QTL detected for single and dual experimental infections.
6. Present results to the partners of the Shellfishboost project, as well as at international conferences, publications, and reports.

Minimum Requirements

PhD in quantitative genetics or high experience with:

• Estimation of genetic parameters (h², rg…) from pedigree and genomic data.
• Exploring genomic architecture through GWAS and selection accuracy.
• Pedigree analysis and imputation tools.
• Good knowledge working in Linux environment.
• Basic molecular biology (DNA extraction, qPCR).

Useful Information

• Position: Temporary 9 months
• Salary: To be defined

The Institute

A pioneer in ocean science, IFREMER's cutting-edge research is grounded in sustainable development and open science. Our vision is to advance science, expertise, and innovation to:

• Protect and restore the ocean
• Sustainably use marine resources to benefit society
• Create and share ocean data, information & knowledge.

With more than 1,500 personnel spread along the French coastline in more than 20 sites, the Institute explores the 3 great oceans: the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans. A leader in ocean science, IFREMER is managing the French Oceanographic Fleet and its dedicated scientists create ground-breaking technology to push the boundaries of ocean exploration and knowledge, from the abyss to the atmosphere-ocean interface.

Well-established in the international scientific community, our scientists, engineers, and technicians are committed to advancing knowledge about our planet's last unexplored frontiers. They provide the science we need for informed decision-making and public policy and transfer this knowledge and technology to businesses to fulfill public and private needs. Core to our mission is also to strengthen public awareness about the importance of understanding the ocean and its resources, and empowering future generations of leaders through education and outreach national campaigns.

Job Details

Title: Engineer or Researcher Position to Explore Genomic Architecture of Disease Resistance in Crassostrea gigas (M/F)

Published: 2025-02-05

Application Deadline: 2025-03-03 23:59 (Europe/Paris), 2025-03-03 23:59 (CET)

Ifremer conceives and operates tools for observation, experimentation, and monitoring, and manages the oceanographic databases.