Doctorant052Rp HF

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our research group at IGBMC. Our overall aim is to better understand how cellular identity is determined at the molecular level using embryonic stem cells as a model system. We combine genetic engineering genomics biochemical and cellular assays to dissect the function of important transcriptional and epigenetic regulators both in physiological and pathological conditions.

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our research group at IGBMC. Our overall aim is to better understand how cellular identity is determined at the molecular level using embryonic stem cells as a model system. We combine genetic engineering genomics biochemical and cellular assays to dissect the function of important transcriptional and epigenetic regulators both in physiological and pathological conditions.

In this PhD project you will exploit state-of-the-art genomics techniques to dissect the molecular function of the transcription factor SALL4 in embryonic stem cells: regulation of transcription via long range enhancer-promoter looping (1) regulation of 3D genome structure via modulation of lamina-associated domains (2). These investigations will help us better understand how SALL4 controls embryonic development and how this protein is de-regulated in developmental disorders and aggressive cancers. More generally this work will clarify how transcription factors interact across different genomic scales to regulate cell identity. Additional information regarding the PhD project is available here: will benefit from a supportive and collaborative work environment to carry out your research. The Institute of Genetics Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC) includes a diverse and international scientific community and hosts a large range of state-of-the-art facilities including genomics bioinformatics proteomics microscopy flow cytometry and cell culture.

Relevant publications:

1- Chhatbar et al. bioRxiv (2025): Giuliani et al. bioRxiv (2025):

3- Pantier et al. Mol Cell (2021):

Keywords: stem cells transcription genome architecture transcription factors SALL4 CRISPR/Cas9 engineering next-generation sequencing

Qualifications and requirements

- Recently obtained Master degree in genomics molecular biology or other relevant discipline.

- Strong motivation to work in the field of gene regulation and chromatin biology.

- Good handling of standard molecular biology techniques.

- Prior experience in generating or analysing genomics data would be desirable but not mandatory.

- English language proficiency (B2 or higher).