The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE) is inviting applications for an exciting 36-month PhD position focused on developing innovative CRISPR technologies for plant research. This doctoral project offers an excellent opportunity for students interested in plant biotechnology, genome editing, molecular biology, and functional genomics to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at improving plant adaptation to changing environmental conditions.

The successful candidate will join one of Europe’s leading agricultural research organizations and work on advanced biotechnology tools with real-world applications in sustainable agriculture. The INRAE PhD position provides an outstanding opportunity for aspiring researchers to develop expertise in CRISPR genome editing, plant biotechnology, and functional genomics. With a fully funded 36-month contract, competitive salary, and access to one of Europe’s premier agricultural research institutions, this doctoral project is an excellent choice for candidates interested in advancing plant science and sustainable agriculture.

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PhD Position Overview

Details	Information
Institution	INRAE (French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment)
Position	Doctoral Thesis (PhD)
Research Area	CRISPR, Plant Biotechnology, Functional Genomics
Project Duration	36 Months
Contract Start	1 October 2026
Monthly Salary	€2,300 Gross
Application Deadline	2 August 2026
Offer ID	OT-29350

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Research Project

The doctoral research focuses on the development of a CRISPR toolbox designed to regulate the expression of genes involved in how plants adapt to their surrounding environment. The project combines modern genome editing technologies with functional genomics to better understand plant responses to environmental challenges and to develop innovative biotechnology tools for future crop improvement.

This research contributes to advancing sustainable agriculture by supporting the development of plants that are better equipped to cope with changing environmental conditions. This PhD position offers several advantages, including:

• Research at a world-leading agricultural institute
• Hands-on experience with CRISPR genome editing
• Training in functional genomics and biotechnology
• Competitive doctoral funding
• Opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture
• Excellent career preparation for academic and industrial research

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Who Should Apply?

INRAE is looking for motivated candidates with academic training in one or more of the following fields:

• Plant Sciences
• Plant Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Functional Genomics
• Related Life Sciences

Applicants with a strong interest in CRISPR genome editing, plant genetics, and biotechnology tool development are especially encouraged to apply.

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Desired Research Interests

Ideal candidates should be interested in topics such as:

• CRISPR technologies
• Genome editing
• Plant biotechnology
• Functional genomics
• Gene regulation
• Plant adaptation
• Molecular genetics
• Crop improvement
• Environmental plant biology

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Salary and Contract

The selected PhD researcher will receive:

• A 36-month doctoral contract
• Gross monthly salary of €2,300
• Full-time research appointment
• Opportunity to work within one of Europe’s leading agricultural research institutes

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Important Dates

Application Deadline 2 August 2026

Contract Start 1 October 2026

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How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application to Nathalie GONZALEZ: nathalie.gonzalez@inrae.fr & Remember to mention Offer ID: OT-29350 in your application. Deadline : 02/08/2026

Contact

Nathalie GONZALEZ: nathalie.gonzalez@inrae.fr

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this a fully funded PhD position?

Yes. The doctoral thesis includes a funded 36-month research contract with a gross monthly salary of €2,300.

What is the duration of the PhD?

The contract runs for 36 months.

When does the position start?

The doctoral contract begins on 1 October 2026.

Which academic backgrounds are eligible?

Candidates with training in plant sciences, biotechnology, molecular biology, cellular biology, or closely related disciplines are encouraged to apply.

What is the main research topic?

The project focuses on developing a CRISPR toolbox to regulate genes involved in plant adaptation to environmental conditions.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 2 August 2026.