Fully Funded ERC Postdoctoral Position in Evolutionary Epigenomics | France 2026

Are you looking for a fully funded postdoctoral opportunity in Europe? The Molaro Lab – Evolutionary Epigenomics and Genetic Conflicts is inviting applications for a 3-year ERC-funded Postdoctoral Position in Evolutionary Epigenomics at the Institute of Genetics, Reproduction and Development (iGReD) in Clermont-Ferrand, France.

This is an outstanding opportunity for researchers with expertise in molecular biology, chromatin biology, genomics, or epigenomics to investigate how genetic conflicts have shaped the evolution of mammalian epigenomes using cutting-edge comparative genomics, epigenome profiling, and mouse models.

Position Overview
CategoryDetails
PositionPostdoctoral Research Fellow
Research AreaEvolutionary Epigenomics & Genetic Conflicts
InstitutionInstitute of Genetics, Reproduction and Development (iGReD)
Host LabMolaro Lab – Evolutionary Epigenomics and Genetic Conflicts
LocationClermont-Ferrand, France
FundingEuropean Research Council (ERC)
Contract Duration3 Years
SalaryFully Funded (Salary + Full Benefits)
Application DeadlineApplications reviewed until October 2026
Start DateAs early as possible
About the Research Project

The European Research Council (ERC) has funded this ambitious project to uncover the functional consequences of epigenome evolutionary diversification in mammals.

The successful postdoctoral fellow will investigate how rapidly evolving germline chromatin pathways contribute to reproduction and genome regulation across mammals.

Using comparative cross-species epigenome profiling, mouse models, and mammalian tissue culture, the project aims to reveal the biological functions of rapidly evolving histone proteins and their parental effects during reproduction.

Research Responsibilities

The selected candidate will:

  • Investigate germline chromatin pathways undergoing diversifying selection.

  • Develop innovative comparative epigenome profiling approaches.

  • Perform in vivo chromatin and epigenomic analyses.

  • Conduct experiments using mouse models and mammalian cell culture.

  • Analyze high-throughput sequencing datasets.

  • Collaborate with an interdisciplinary research team.

  • Publish findings in leading international journals.

  • Present research at scientific meetings and conferences.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants should possess:

  • A PhD in:

    • Molecular Biology

    • Chromatin Biology

    • Genomics

    • Epigenomics

    • or a closely related discipline.

Preferred Skills

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:

  • High-throughput sequencing

  • Chromatin biology

  • Nucleosome biology

  • Mouse genetics

  • Epigenomics

  • Comparative genomics

  • Mammalian tissue culture

  • Bioinformatics (advantageous)

Research Interests

Ideal applicants should have a strong interest in:

  • Evolutionary Biology

  • Epigenomics

  • Chromatin Biology

  • Mammalian Genetics

  • Genome Evolution

  • Functional Genomics

What the Lab Offers

Successful applicants will receive:

  • Fully funded 3-year ERC-supported position.

  • Competitive salary with full employment benefits.

  • Access to state-of-the-art genomics and epigenomics platforms.

  • A highly collaborative and inclusive international research environment.

  • Weekly scientific seminars and networking opportunities.

  • Career development and professional training throughout the fellowship.

  • Support to apply for independent research fellowships and grants.

About the Host Institute

The Institute of Genetics, Reproduction and Development (iGReD) is located in Clermont-Ferrand, France and is supported by:

  • CNRS

  • INSERM

  • Université Clermont Auvergne

The institute provides outstanding research infrastructure and hosts an active scientific community dedicated to genetics, reproduction, developmental biology, and genomics.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should submit:

  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • One-page Cover Letter or Motivation Email

  • Contact details of two professional referees

How to Apply

Interested candidates should email their application directly to:

Dr. Antoine Molaro

Email address: [email protected]

Please include:

  • CV

  • One-page Cover Letter

  • Contact information for two professional references

Applications will be reviewed continuously until October 2026, and early applications are strongly encouraged.

Application Deadline

Applications will be reviewed until October 2026 or until the position is filled.

Why You Should Apply

This ERC-funded fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity to work at the forefront of:

  • Evolutionary Epigenomics

  • Functional Genomics

  • Chromatin Biology

  • Comparative Genomics

  • Mammalian Genetics

  • High-throughput Sequencing

Researchers interested in academic careers in genetics, epigenetics, or genome biology will gain valuable interdisciplinary experience while working in one of France’s leading research institutes.

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