Thesis - Early Detection Of Toxic Microalgae In Coastal Waters Validation Of a New Rt-Ddlamp Biosensor H/F

Ifremer
Ifremer

Full-time,

Plouzané, France

Posted on Oct 22, 2026

Thesis - Early Detection Of Toxic Microalgae In Coastal Waters Validation Of a New Rt-Ddlamp Biosensor H/F Ifremer

  • Plouzané - 29
  • CDD
  • Télétravail occasionnel
  • 3 ans
  • Bac +5
  • Secteur Energie • Environnement
  • Débutants acceptés
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Les missions du poste

Closing date for applications : 20/11/2026


Start date: 1 January 2027

Application deadline: 20 November 2026

Duration: 3 years


Harmful algal blooms (HABs) represent a major concern for marine ecosystems, public health and coastal economic activities, particularly shellfish farming and tourism. Although these events occur naturally, environmental changes may strongly affect their distribution, seasonality and intensity. Some species produce toxins that can accumulate in shellfish, potentially causing health problems and leading to temporary closures of shellfish production areas.

As there are currently no effective ways to prevent these blooms, monitoring coastal waters and shellfish remains the main management strategy. However, current detection methods, mainly based on microscopic identification, are time-consuming, require specialised skills and do not always allow a rapid response. There is therefore a clear need for sensitive and specific molecular methods that can be used directly in the field. DNA amplification techniques, such as droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), enable accurate detection and quantification of these organisms. LAMP is particularly suitable for field analyses because it operates at a constant temperature, making it a preferred method for developing field biosensors.

This PhD is part of the ALARMM project, which aims to develop a real-time droplet digital LAMP (rt-ddLAMP) device. This new technology aims to provide a fast, reliable and affordable way to detect toxic microalgae directly in the field.


PhD objectives

  • Validate and optimise the ALARMM biosensor.
  • Compare molecular detection and quantification techniques with the standard methods used in monitoring programmes, using samples from REPHY and the ToxDiag project.
  • Analyse the phenology of two microalgal species (Alexandrium minutum and Pseudo-nitzschia australis) using time-series samples and the technique developed within ALARMM.


Le profil recherché

Candidate profile

Applicants should hold a Master's degree or an engineering degree in molecular biology, biotechnology or a related field. Laboratory experience in molecular biology techniques (qPCR, ddPCR or LAMP) is desirable. An interest in instrumentation, sensor development and microfluidic devices, together with an interest in marine ecology and environmental monitoring, would be particularly welcome. Strong motivation for experimental work is essential.


The successful candidate should be able to work independently, demonstrate scientific rigour and curiosity, and work effectively within a multidisciplinary team covering marine biology, biotechnology, instrumentation and microfluidics, in an environment focused on technological innovation.


Research environment

This PhD will be carried out across two sites, primarily at the Ifremer Brittany Centre in Plouzané, within a team specialising in toxic microalgae monitoring and research and development.

Part of the work will take place at CEA-Leti in Grenoble, the coordinator of the ALARMM project, to develop and validate the sensor. The PhD candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment combining molecular biology, microfluidics and environmental monitoring.

Infos complémentaires

How to apply?


Please submit your application, including a cover letter and a detailed CV, through the Amethis platform before 20 November 2026:


https://amethis.doctorat.org/amethis-client/prd/consulter/offre/3787


What benefits do we offer?

  • Remote working subject to agreement.
  • Our staff are entitled to 12 days of RTT and additional leave beyond statutory entitlements.
  • We allocate a substantial budget to skills development, through individual and team-based initiatives.
  • We are committed to a CSR policy inspired by the institute's core values (sustainable mobility allowance, etc.)

What are the next steps?

  • Review of your application
  • In-person or video conference interview
  • Interview before a doctoral school committee, with representatives from the doctoral school and Ifremer
  • Approval of your application by the doctoral school council

Les étapes de recrutement

Les étapes de recrutement peuvent varier selon l'offre à laquelle vous postulez.

  • Échange téléphonique ou en visioconférence pour une préqualification

  • Entretien en commission avec plusieurs interlocuteurs techniques et RH

  • Validation du dossier par le directeur du département

La carte

1625 Route de Sainte-Anne

29280 Plouzané

Localiser le poste

Publiée le 22/10/2026 - Réf : 4414881/30645954 2026-1928/1

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