Researcher Job in the Production of DNA-Modifying Enzymes in Cyanobacteria – CNRS, France

The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) is inviting applications for a Researcher position focused on the production of DNA-modifying enzymes in cyanobacteria. This temporary, full-time research position is based at the Institut de Biologie Intégrative de la Cellule (I2BC) in Gif-sur-Yvette, France.

The successful researcher will work on the cloning and expression of genes encoding DNA-modifying enzymes, with an emphasis on developing sustainable production systems. The research will use genetically manipulable model cyanobacteria capable of producing biomass from atmospheric carbon dioxide and light.

This opportunity is particularly relevant for researchers with experience in molecular biology, microbiology, cyanobacterial genetics, biotechnology, and biochemistry. The position is classified as Researcher Profile R2 – Recognised Researcher and offers the opportunity to contribute to research at a major multidisciplinary scientific institute in France.

Key Details

Category	Details
Position	Researcher in the Production of DNA-Modifying Enzymes in Cyanobacteria
Organisation	CNRS
Department	Institut de Biologie Intégrative de la Cellule (I2BC)
Research Field	Biological Sciences; Biotechnology
Researcher Profile	Recognised Researcher (R2)
Job Location	Gif-sur-Yvette, France
Contract Type	Temporary
Job Status	Full-time
Working Hours	35 hours per week
Starting Date	1 January 2027
Application Deadline	12 September 2026, 23:59 UTC
Primary Research Areas	Molecular biology, microbiology, cyanobacteria, biotechnology, biochemistry

About the Research Position

The researcher will be responsible for developing biological approaches for the production of DNA-modifying enzymes. A central part of the work will involve cloning and expressing genes encoding target enzymes in genetically manipulable cyanobacterial model organisms.

The project has a sustainability-oriented focus because cyanobacteria can use atmospheric CO₂ and light as resources for growth. The researcher will therefore contribute to research exploring cyanobacteria as potential biological platforms for the sustainable production of valuable enzymes.

The position combines laboratory-based molecular biology, microbiology, protein and enzyme work, and scientific documentation. Applicants should be comfortable working across several experimental techniques and should be able to adapt protocols and procedures as research activities progress.

Main Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to carry out molecular biology experiments, including PCR, DNA cloning, and sequencing. These techniques will be used to construct and analyse genetic systems required for the expression of DNA-modifying enzymes. The researcher will also conduct microbiological work involving cyanobacteria. This may include cultivation, transformation, and conjugation of cyanobacterial strains, as well as other laboratory procedures related to photosynthetic microorganisms.

Another important responsibility will be enzyme extraction and purification, followed by activity assays to evaluate the properties and performance of the produced enzymes. The researcher will also be expected to draft laboratory protocols and procedures and contribute to the clear documentation of experimental work.

Research Environment at I2BC

The position will be based at the Institut de Biologie Intégrative de la Cellule (I2BC) on the CNRS campus in Gif-sur-Yvette. I2BC is a joint research unit involving CNRS, the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), and Paris-Saclay University. The institute brings together nearly 650 people across 43 research teams and 17 high-technology platforms, providing a broad scientific environment for interdisciplinary research.

The successful candidate will join the Department of Microbiology and work within the Cyanobacteria Biology and Biotechnology team. The team includes two researchers, one associate professor, one emeritus researcher, and one doctoral student. Working in this environment will provide the researcher with an opportunity to contribute to a focused cyanobacteria research programme while benefiting from the wider scientific expertise and technical infrastructure available within I2BC.

This position offers an opportunity to work at the intersection of cyanobacterial biotechnology, molecular biology, enzyme production, and sustainable biotechnology. Researchers interested in biological production systems and photosynthetic microorganisms may find the project especially relevant to their academic and professional background.

The role also provides exposure to a collaborative research environment involving CNRS, CEA, and Paris-Saclay University. Its combination of genetic engineering, cyanobacterial cultivation, enzyme purification, and biochemical assays makes it suitable for candidates seeking to develop or apply multidisciplinary laboratory expertise.

Eligibility and Required Qualifications

Applicants should have a strong background in molecular biology, particularly DNA cloning and related laboratory techniques. Experience with microbiology and the cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms is also required. Knowledge of the genetics and physiology of cyanobacteria is an important part of the desired profile. Candidates should understand the biological characteristics of cyanobacteria and have practical experience working with these organisms or closely related photosynthetic microorganisms.

A strong background in biochemistry is also expected because the role involves enzyme extraction, purification, and activity assays. Candidates should be able to work carefully with laboratory protocols and interpret experimental results. Good written and oral communication skills in English are required. The researcher should also be capable of documenting procedures, communicating scientific findings, and working effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.

Contract, Working Hours, and Start Date

This is a temporary, full-time research position with a working schedule of 35 hours per week. The planned starting date is 1 January 2027. The position is not funded through an EU Research Framework Programme and is not classified as a staff position within a Research Infrastructure.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through: https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/CDD/UMR9198-SOUOUC-002/Default.aspx before the stated deadline. Application deadline: 12 September 2026 at 23:59 UTC.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Researcher in DNA-Modifying Enzymes position?

It is a full-time temporary research position at CNRS focused on cloning and expressing genes encoding DNA-modifying enzymes using genetically manipulable cyanobacteria for sustainable enzyme production.

Where is the position located?

The position is based at the Institut de Biologie Intégrative de la Cellule (I2BC) on the CNRS campus in Gif-sur-Yvette, France.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is 12 September 2026 at 23:59 UTC.

When does the position start?

The expected starting date is 1 January 2027.

Is this a full-time position?

Yes. The position is temporary and full-time, with 35 working hours per week.

What research skills are required?

Applicants should have expertise in molecular biology, DNA cloning, microbiology, cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms, cyanobacterial genetics and physiology, and biochemistry. Good written and oral English communication skills are also required.

What laboratory techniques are involved?

The work includes PCR, cloning, sequencing, cyanobacterial growth, transformation, conjugation, enzyme extraction and purification, and enzyme activity assays.