Postdoc position in Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Aging and Diseases

Employeur

The Institute of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases (I2MC) is recognized for its translational research in the field of metabolic (obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemias) and cardiovascular (thrombosis, atherosclerosis, cardiac and renal failure) diseases.

Currently, the I2MC is composed of 14 research teams.

The teams share a similar "research philosophy" consisting in multidisciplinary approaches from basic science to clinical trials. In terms of basic research, the laboratories have a large expertise in membrane and intracellular receptors, cell signaling, metabolic pathways, cell/cell interactions and the mechanisms of tissue remodeling. To establish the pathophysiological relevance of the results obtained in basic research, I2MC teams have created original animal models and phenotyping techniques that have gained national recognition and are one of the highlights of the Institute. Translation to the clinic is greatly facilitated by the location within the Rangueil site of Toulouse University Hospitals. Notably, clinical departments devoted to nutrition, cardiovascular and renal diseases, obesity and diabetes are in close vicinity of I2MC.

The industrial valorization of the research is another strength of I2MC. Numerous structured collaborations are ongoing with industrial partners, from SMEs to big pharmas. I2MC research directly contributed to the creation of 4 start up companies.

I2MC offers scientists a diverse set of competence through its 7 core facilities (Lipidomics, Imaging, Bioinformatics, Functional Biochemistry, Cytometry, Histology, Genomics & Transcriptomics). These Facilities are central to the scientific development of I2MC and a major asset in terms of recognition.

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Poste et missions

The project of the LiMitAging team ( Li poprotein and Mit ochondrial adaptation in Aging ), led by Dr. Laurent Martinez, is to study the relation between some actors of mitochondrial functions and aging, and is driven by the hypothesis that enhancing mitochondrial health and mitochondrial quality-control mechanisms will promote healthy aging.

The team's research in the field of lipoprotein and mitochondria led to identify original actors associated to lipid and mitochondrial energy metabolism.

Our objectives are to explore the physiological and pathophysiological roles of those molecular actors that regulate:

1. The respiratory chain complex V, also called ATP synthase

2. Autophagy, particularly mitophagy

3. Ectopic ATP synthase and G protein-coupled P2Y receptors signaling pathways

Team's work has led to the development of original drug candidates and biomarkers that are currently being validated on preclinical models and cohorts, for early detection and resolution of mitochondrial dysfunctions in pre-frail eldery or in population at high risk of cardiometabolic diseases.

The research topic's links to the research environment in Toulouse: The LiMitAging team participates in the large IHU HealthAge program on healthy aging, launched in 2024 ( The IHU HeathAge consortium brings together the Gérontopôle of the Toulouse University Hospital and several research laboratories which have decided to combine their expertise to address key biological components (immunity, inflammation, metabolism, repair mechanisms) present in all organs, essential for their functioning and altered during aging.

Duration and specificity: 24 months. If selected, the applicant will apply to AToUT Programme (Attractiveness of Toulouse University for Transitions), a postdoctoral fellowship initiative coordinated by the University of Toulouse and a core component of the TIRIS initiative (Toulouse Initiative for Research Impact on Society).

Mobilité géographique :

Pas de déplacement

Prise de fonction :

01/09/2026

Profil

Desired qualification :

• Experience in aging biology and/or mitochondrial metabolism

• Experience with specific diseases or organ dysfunction

• Experience in interdisciplinary research, including the use of generative AI in medicine for dataset analysis

• Proficiency in R

Personal qualities:

• Personal suitability, good communication and teamwork skills, inventiveness, and a proactive approach, will be emphasized in the evaluation as well as relevant practical experience. The Postdoctoral Fellow will be expected to contribute to an active research community that promotes the personal and professional growth.
• The position places great demands on the applicant’s capacity for independent goal-oriented work, ability to concentrate and attention to detail.
• In return, Dr Martinez is committed to provide the training and resources needed for the lab members to achieve their goals at any point in their career path in an inclusive and inspirational environment .

Eligibility criteria:

• PhD
• Strong publication record
• All nationalities
• Mandatory: Not have resided or worked in France >12 months in the 36 months before 28 February 2026

Objectifs

The project will aim to explore the regulation and function of a novel regulator of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system in the aging process by itself and in the process of aging by itself and/or in one specific age-related disease, chosen according to the candidate's expertise.