The Saranathan lab is looking to recruit an ambitious, highly motivated person with a background in quantitative biology (omics) or computational biology for a Postdoc position at the Research Institute for Insect Biology (IRBI) UMR 7261, CNRS/University of Tours, to study the structure-function relationships in feather keratins using multi-omic datasets (published and de novo).
Our Evolutionary Photonics and Biomimetics group (https://vinodal.weebly.com) studies the intracellular self-assembly of photonic nanostructures primarily in insects and birds. We combine diverse experimental and numerical approaches from evolution and development to soft matter physics to better understand the biogenesis of hierarchical integumentary architectures including photonic crystals in order to eventually synthesize them in vitro for biomimetic engineered applications. 
We aim to fill the position starting on 15 November, although a later starting date is possible for a candidate who matches the profile well. The position is initially funded for one year, with the possibility of an extension for a further 2-year period. We have generous funding from the HFSP to push this project forward and opportunities for close collaboration at the University of Southern California (USC) and the University of Tokyo/RIKEN.
Interested candidates should apply by October 28, 2026 solely via the CNRS job portal (https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/Doctorant/UMR7261-AICBEL-055/Default.aspx?lang=EN) with a full CV including contact information for two references, and a brief statement of research interests.
Informal enquiries are welcome! please email saranathan@univ-tours.fr

Vinodkumar SARANATHAN
CNRS Chaire de Professeur Junior en Biométisme
Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte (IRBI)
UMR 7261 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) / Université de Tours
Faculté des Sciences et Techniques
Avenue Monge, Parc Grandmont
37200 Tours, FRANCE
https://www.univ-tours.fr/saranathan

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