CONTEXT

Focal cortical dysplasia type II (FCDII) is associated with severe pediatric focal epilepsy and is classified among the mTORopathies, as FCDII brains exhibit hallmarks of mTOR hyperactivation. FCDII-associated epilepsy is typically resistant to anti-seizure medications, and patients ultimately require neurosurgical resection of the epileptogenic zone for seizure control, enabling direct analysis of diseased tissue.

The Baulac Lab is one of the pioneers in identifying brain somatic mutations in FCDII, affecting various genes belonging to the mTOR pathway and responsible for its hyperactivation. However, approximately 40% of FCDII cases remain genetically unsolved. Moreover, the cell type and developmental origin of FCDII abnormal cells are still poorly understood.

·       Master’s degree or equivalent passed before the starting date with required international mobility. 

·       The candidate must not have spent more than 12months in France in the past 3 years. 

KNOWLEDGE

• Strong background in neuroscience, molecular biology, and/or genetics

• Proficiency in sequencing techniques and bioinformatics analysis

• Understanding of cellular signaling pathways, particularly the mTOR pathway

• Fluency in scientific English (written and oral) required, French is an asset

• Advanced skills in genomic and transcriptomic data analysis

• Knowledge of bioinformatics tools for high-throughput sequencing analysis

SKILLS

• Ability to identify cell types involved in epileptogenesis and determine the developmental origin of abnormal cells found in FCDII tissues.

• Ability to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms disrupted by mTOR-activating mutations.

SOFT SKILLS

• Scientific rigor and autonomy

• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team

• Intellectual curiosity and creative problem-solving skills

• Effective organization and time management for complex projects