Junior Professor Chairs (CPJ) 2026 – CNRS Biology
Institutionnel
CNRS Biology is recruiting researchers through its Junior Professor Chair (CPJ) program, subject to final approval by the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Space.
The application deadlines are provisional and will be specified at a later date.
From the start of the appointment at CNRS, this scheme provides dedicated financial support and includes teaching activities within a higher education institution. These positions are offered as fixed-term public-sector contracts lasting from 3 to 6 years. Following an evaluation of the candidate’s scientific achievements and professional aptitude by a tenure review committee, successful candidates may be granted tenure as a CNRS Research Director.
Below is the list of disciplinary Junior Professor Chairs (CPJ):
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Governing Protozoan Parasite Biology and Pathogenicity (ProBioPath)
The project aims to decipher the molecular mechanisms controlling the biology, differentiation, environmental adaptation, and pathogenicity of medically important protozoa, drawing on the expertise of the CIIL or MFP. The MFP develops integrated approaches in cellular and molecular biology to study trypanosomatids and Toxoplasma, with a focus on cytoskeleton-membrane interactions, compartment dynamics, and the links between metabolism, differentiation, and transmission. Its facilities, including BSL3 laboratories, enable the secure analysis of various models. The CIIL provides recognized expertise in the genetics of Apicomplexan parasites and host–pathogen interactions, combining mechanistic analyses, murine models, advanced microscopy, and innovative technologies such as organ-on-a-chip systems. The CIIL also benefits from infrastructure such as an A2 animal facility and BSL2 and BSL3 laboratories.
Host laboratories:
- Microbiologie Fondamentale et Pathogénicité (MFP)
- Centre d’Infection et d’Immunité de Lille (CIIL)
Epigenetics of cellular fate (EpiDeC)
Recent advances in high-resolution epigenomics and quantitative imaging, applied to in vitro models such as stem cells and organoids, open new avenues for investigating early human development. Key challenges include coordinating epigenetic mechanisms involved in the acquisition, maintenance, and plasticity of cell identities under physiological and pathological conditions.
This Junior Professor Chair (CPJ), focused on integrative epigenetics of cell fate, aims to develop innovative approaches combining epigenomics and quantitative cell biology. The goal is to further characterize chromatin regulation in cell diversification and reprogramming during development.
Hosted within the EDC research unit, the CPJ will benefit from an outstanding scientific environment, including 3D models (blastoids, organoids), shared technological platforms, state-of-the-art single-cell methods, and recognized expertise in human lineage biology.
Host laboratory :
Neuronal subcellular transport and its role in neurodevelopmental disorders (NeuroSubTra)
The project aims to uncover how molecular dynamics, studied at the subcellular level, controls intercellular communication between organelles during neuronal development and neuroplasticity processes. It also seeks to decode the molecular mechanisms involved in the dysfunction of this communication in neurodevelopmental pathologies, with the goal of developing original modulatory strategies.
This project will use murine models of neurodevelopmental disorders and will rely on biological samples ranging from dissociated cell cultures to whole-brain. It will employ cutting-edge imaging techniques, molecular biology methods (gene expression manipulation, use of viral vectors), OMICS approaches, and behavioral studies.
Host laboratory:
Adaptive mechanisms and evolutionary innovations in photosynthetic organisms in response to environmental diversity (EVOLEA)
The project will aim to uncover novel mechanisms enabling photosynthetic organisms to adapt to the dynamic diversity of environments and to understand their molecular and cellular determinants. The mechanisms investigated may include adaptation to extreme conditions or biological innovations, such as previously uncharacterized cellular architectures, developmental patterns, or interspecific associations such as photosymbioses.
By leveraging emerging model organisms originating from poorly studied branches of the tree of life, or from extreme or atypical environments, the successful candidate will explore mechanisms that remain inaccessible in classical model systems. The approach will integrate a broad range of tools to link processes from the molecular scale to the environmental scale. Particular attention will be given to the evolutionary signatures of the identified innovations, in order to determine how environmental conditions have shaped molecular processes across different clades.
Host laboratory:
Dialogue between the brain and peripheral tissues for the control of energy homeostasis throughout life (DIALECT)
The scientific project aims to strengthen the leadership position of the BFA laboratory in the field of integrated physiology, in relation to nutrition, the regulation of energy homeostasis, and their pathological disorders. Focusing on the theme of peripheral/brain interactions, the project will explore gut-brain interactions, particularly the role of the vagal and central nervous systems in controlling eating behavior. It will also include the study of sensory signals (food odors) and circulating signals (nutrients, hormones such as incretins) on the regulation of blood sugar and insulin secretion. These two areas can be combined for an integrated approach using preclinical models of diabetes and obesity. The project will be based on a multidisciplinary approach (cellular, molecular and behavioral tools) and will have a translational focus to enhance the clinical impact of the research conducted.
Host laboratory:
Integrative neurocognition in cephalopods (CephaloCog)
The project aims to identify the neural basis of complex cognitive functions in cephalopods by combining behavioural analyses, in vivo electrophysiology and transcriptomic approaches. Using ethological and ecological approaches, it will explore the functioning of the visual integration system during various cognitive tasks (prey identification, dynamic camouflage, navigation). EEG recordings of free-swimming animals and IGE expression will be used to determine the brain networks involved and map them. The integration of multi-omic data will link genetic organisation and neural plasticity. Ultimately, the project may also aim to study colour changes, a unique property of cephalopods, during communicative and non-communicative interactions. This project will structure an innovative cognitive and comparative neuro-ethology axis within the centre.
Host laboratory :
Interdisciplinary Junior Professor Chairs (CPJ):
INSHS - Early educational inequalities and cognitive-motor skills (PRE-COG-MOT)
To address educational inequalities, early intervention is essential, starting in preschool, a stage of learning that tightly integrates sensorimotor and language development. Rich sensorimotor development is a prerequisite for foundational academic learning and social skills ("living together") and integrating sensorimotor and cognitive development sheds light on factors contributing to academic attainment that have been largely underexplored to date. Combining developmental neuroscience with educational research opens fresh perspectives for early pedagogical interventions. The goal of the Junior Research Chair (CPJ) is to analyze the key elements of early childhood educational inequalities and to develop early interventions aimed at reducing gaps in students' physical and sensorimotor development. Early educational interventions supporting sensorimotor development of preschoolers are a key element preserve optimal capacities for future cognitive and academic learning, and this research program reinforces the connection between fundamental research and implemented educational practices.
Host laboratories :
How to apply
- Official publication of positions: mid-June
- Submission of applications: summer 2026
- Selection and interviews: autumn 2026
- Start of appointment: during 2027
More information on the vacancies is available on the CNRS careers website.