CIFRE PhD Position in corneal pain research
Context
A 3-year PhD position is available in the research team of Annabelle Réaux Le Goazigo at the Paris Vision Institute a leading center of excellence in vision science. This project, done in collaboration with a private pharmaceutical company specializing in ophthalmology, focuses on addressing the therapeutic challenge of corneal pain, a condition that remains difficult to treat effectively. Our team has developed several preclinical models to screen and validate new therapeutic targets for corneal pain relief. The PhD candidate will evaluate the potential of various compounds as novel therapeutic approaches (topical administration) to alleviate corneal pain.
The research team
Our multidisciplinary team, comprising researchers, clinician-researchers, engineers, and students, is currently the only team in the Vision Institute working on the diseases of the anterior segment of the eye. Our preclinical and clinical research have focused on glaucoma, dry eye disease, ocular toxicology and ocular pain.
Pathophysiology of the anterior segment of the eye | Institut de la vision
Missions
The PhD project will address three main objectives:
Cellular and molecular profiling: Characterizing the cellular and molecular distribution of the protein(s) targeted by topical treatments in the cornea.
Investigation of analgesic effects. Evaluating the analgesic properties of topical treatments across various preclinical models. A combination of behavioral assays and histological analyses will be employed to assess how these treatments modulate pronociceptive and pro-inflammatory markers in both the cornea and the brain
Skills required
Technical skills:
- Practical experience in animal behavior (rodent handling and behavioral testing).
- Familiarity with pain mechanisms and inflammation, particularly in a neurobiological context.
Scientific and personal attributes:
- A strong passion for behavioral neuroscience and the neurobiology of pain and inflammation.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.
- Rigor in scientific methodology, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Good written and oral communication skills in both French and English, with the ability to present research findings clearly and effectively.
Education and experience
- Master's degree (or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Pharmacology, or Biology.
- Prior experience in experimental research, preferably in the neuroscience field, including a Master's internship.
- Basic training in animal experimentation is required.
Specific working conditions
As part of a dynamic, cutting-edge research environment at the Paris Vision Institute, you will have the opportunity to contribute to high-impact research aimed at improving the understanding and treatment of corneal pain. This position will allow you to develop expertise in experimental neuroscience, pharmacology, and animal models of pain while working in close collaboration with world-class scientists.
Please only apply to Annabelle Réaux-Le Goazigo: annabelle.reaux@inserm.fr
The complete application should contain:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum vitae
Deadline: 10.07.2025
How to apply
To apply for this vacancy, please complete this form and attach your cover letter and curriculum vitae in .pdf format. We will get back to you as soon as possible.