The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) is a key player in research, development and innovation in four main areas :
• defence and security,
• nuclear energy (fission and fusion),
• technological research for industry,
• fundamental research in the physical sciences and life sciences.
Drawing on its widely acknowledged expertise, and thanks to its 16000 technicians, engineers, researchers and staff, the CEA actively participates in collaborative projects with a large number of academic and industrial partners.
The CEA is established in ten centers spread throughout France
2026-39863
The CEA's Fundamental Research Division (DRF) employs more than 5,000 people on four sites and conducts research in the physical, chemical, biological and environmental sciences, using cutting-edge technologies and instruments
Based at the Grenoble site, the Department of Integrated Structural and Cellular Biology (DBSCI) at the IRIG (Grenoble Interdisciplinary Research Institute) is fully aligned with the DRF's scientific strategy.
The DBSCI department comprises two units:
- The Cell and Plant Physiology Laboratory studies the functional organisation of the cell, particularly the plant cell. This research, conducted at both the molecular and cellular levels, is then placed within the context of the whole plant during its development. The effects of fluctuating environmental conditions are investigated. All this work aims to provide a better understanding of cellular mechanisms, notably metabolic pathways or processes of cell division and morphogenesis, at the cellular and tissue levels.
- The IBS (Institute of Structural Biology) structures its research around three main areas.
The first area concerns infectious diseases and molecular medicine, and focuses on research in structural and functional microbiology and virology, host-pathogen interactions and immunity, transcriptional regulation and DNA repair.The second research area focuses on signalling and membrane transport; this area involves the development of methods for biochemistry, structural biology and the engineering of membrane proteins.
The third area aims to push the boundaries of biophysics and chemistry applications in structural biology by developing new methodological approaches.
Biology, biophysics and biochemistry
Fixed-term contract
PhD student in microbiology H/F H/F
Executive
36
Are you passionate about the enzymatic reactions of anaerobic microbes and keen to contribute to excellence in scientific research? Join us as a PhD student on a three-year fixed-term contract and be part of the IBS/IRIG Institute!
The EnLightEn project studies non-isolated archaea (derived from ‘microbial dark matter’) that produce and degrade methane, utilising native biomass rather than artificial systems.
Your tasks will include
This unconventional approach, which circumvents the barrier posed by microbial isolation, enables us to understand the molecular mechanisms of native enzymes involved in the conversion of carbon-based molecules, with potential applications in industrial chemistry. EnLightEn will open up a new field of research to characterise functional dark matter, which can then be applied to other metabolic processes and offer an unprecedented insight into the molecular tricks employed by the microbial world.
The ideal candidate is a microbiologist who is highly motivated to deepen their knowledge of protein biochemistry and structural biology in order to understand the fundamental enzymatic mechanisms of microbial metabolism. The candidate must hold a Master’s degree in microbiology and, preferably, have experience in environmental microbiology (e.g. microbial sampling). Candidates with strong skills and knowledge in anaerobic microbiology (e.g. anaerobic microbial culture, assays, metabolism, genome exploration, etc.) will be given priority. Experience in native protein purification, biochemistry and structural biology is welcome.
You will need to demonstrate an open mind and a high degree of scientific rigour. You must be fluent in English, which will enable you to communicate effectively with the team and write scientific articles.
🤝 Why join us? ….
By joining the Grenoble Interdisciplinary Institute, you’ll be part of a dynamic and innovative research environment where you’ll have the opportunity to learn, grow and play a key role within a centre of excellence.
…AND THAT’S NOT ALL!
You may be interested in the benefits that come alongside your main role:
A cutting-edge research ecosystem dedicated to topics of significant societal importance.
Training to enhance your skills and boost your career.
A staff committee offering a wealth of social, cultural and sporting benefits.
Practical benefits: staff canteen/meal vouchers, 85% of transport costs covered, and much more.
An exceptional living environment in Grenoble, nestled in the mountains, offering a unique balance between city life and nature.
🚀 Want to be part of the adventure? Apply now and put your energy to work for research and innovation!
In line with the CEA’s commitments to the integration of people with disabilities, this role is open to everyone. The CEA offers adjustments and/or organisational arrangements to facilitate the inclusion of disabled workers
Grenoble
France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Isère (38)
Grenoble
French (Intermediate)
Master
01/09/2026
The CEA is the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission ("Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives"). It is a public body established in October 1945 by General de Gaulle. A leader in research, development and innovation, the CEA mission statement has two main objectives: To become the leading technological research organization in Europe and to ensure that the nuclear deterrent remains effective in the future.
The CEA is active in four main areas: low-carbon energies, defense and security, information technologies and health technologies. In each of these fields, the CEA maintains a cross-disciplinary culture of engineers and researchers, building on the synergies between fundamental and technological research.
The civilian programs of the CEA received 49% of their funding from the French government, and 30% from external sources (partner companies and the European Union).
The CEA had a budget of 4,3 billion euros.
The CEA is based in ten research centers in France, each specializing in specific fields. The laboratories are located in the Paris region, the Rhône-Alpes, the Rhône valley, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, Aquitaine, Central France and Burgundy. The CEA benefits from the strong regional identities of these laboratories and the partnerships forged with other research centers, local authorities and universities.
