PhD and Postdoctoral Positions in Plant Biotechnology and Specialized Metabolism

The Desgagné-Penix Laboratory at Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) is recruiting one PhD student and one Postdoctoral Fellow for research in plant biotechnology, specifically focusing on the characterization of biosynthetic enzymes involved in Amaryllidaceae alkaloid biosynthesis and pathway reconstruction in heterologous systems such as yeast, N. benthamiana, or microalgae. The project is funded by IMPACT Canada and NSERC scholarships, offering competitive stipends for both positions. Applicants should demonstrate expertise in analytical biochemistry, including extraction, isolation, and advanced techniques such as FPLC, HPLC, and LC-MS/MS. Strong skills in molecular biology are required, particularly in Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and work with N. benthamiana, yeast, and microalgae. A strong publication record in plant specialized metabolism is essential, and French language skills are considered an asset for integration into the team and local environment. The PhD position provides $40,000 per year for three years, while the postdoctoral position offers $70,000 per year for two years. Both roles are part of a dynamic research group aiming to advance the boundaries of plant biotechnology and contribute to the sustainable production of bioactive molecules. The laboratory encourages applications from candidates who are motivated to work on innovative projects in plant specialized metabolism and who can articulate their suitability for the IMPACT scholarship and the research project. To apply, candidates should send their CV and a letter of interest explaining their motivation and fit for the scholarship and project to Professor Isabel Desgagné-Penix at [email protected] by January 12, 2026. For more information, visit the lab's academic and LinkedIn pages. This is an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in plant biotechnology, analytical biochemistry, and molecular biology to join a leading Canadian research team.