"PhD Position in Neuroscience – French–German ANR–DFG Program at Normandie University"

Microbiome–Microglia Interactions in Blood-brain barrier dysfucntion after Ischemic Stroke

Location: Caen, France

Host lab: Inserm UMR-1237, Blood & Brain Institute@Caen

Start: 1st October 2026 

Duration: 36 months

Funding: Fully funded PhD position (ANR–DFG bilateral grant)

Project background

This PhD project is embedded in a French–German ANR–DFG collaborative program investigating how the gut microbiome modulates microglial activity and blood-brain barrier dysfunction following ischemic stroke.

The PhD student will be based in Caen (France), with structured collaboration and research exchanges with the German partner laboratory, and possible joint supervision within the ANR–DFG framework between LMU Munich and Caen Normandie University.

Scientific objectives

The PhD project will address:

• How microbiome composition influences microglial activation states after ischemic stroke
• The contribution of microglia–microbiome interactions to microthrombus formation and persistence
• Consequences for BBB dysfunction, endothelial transcytosis, and neurovascular integrity
• Integration of vascular, immune, and microbial signals in post-stroke pathology

Experimental approaches

Depending on the candidate’s background (training provided):

• Advanced mouse models of ischemic stroke
• Germ-free / antibiotic-treated / microbiome-modulated mice
• In vivo and ex vivo analysis of BBB leakage
• Immunohistochemistry, confocal and two-photon microscopy
• Microglia phenotyping and neuroinflammation assays, RNA seq and analysis
• Quantitative image and data analysis (Fiji, Imaris; R/Python )

Candidate profile

Required:

• Master’s degree in neuroscience, immunology, biology, biomedical sciences, or related fields
• Strong interest in neuroimmunology, microbiome research, or vascular biology
• Motivation for experimental, hypothesis-driven research
• Fluent English (working language)

Desirable :

• Experience with animal models
• Background in microbiome, immunology, stroke, or BBB research
• Microscopy or image analysis experience
• Interest in international collaborative research

What we offer

• Fully funded 36-month PhD contract (University Caen-Normandie doctoral school)
• Highly interdisciplinary research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art imaging and animal facilities
• Joint French–German supervision and mobility
• Strong mentoring, publication, and career development support

Application

Please send:

1. CV
2. Motivation letter (max. 1 page)
3. Contact details of 1–2 referees

Contact: Igor Khalin, igor.khalin@inserm.fr