PhD in Animal Nutrition, Metabolism and Molecular Biology on Feed Intake in Mulard Ducks INRAE / Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour in France

PhD opportunity in Animal Nutrition, Metabolism and Molecular Biology at INRAE / Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour (NuMeA team), based in Mont-de-Marsan, France.

The project focuses on regulation of feed intake in Mulard ducks, with an emphasis on gut-brain mechanisms, nutritional physiology, metabolism, and molecular biology. The research aims to develop welfare-friendly alternatives to force-feeding in foie gras production by studying voluntary hyperphagia, liver fattening, and the biological mechanisms that control food intake.

Research methods mentioned include RNA extraction, gene expression analysis, Western blot, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, transcriptomics, and lipidomics. The project also explores neurobiology, the gut-brain axis, and embryonic programming approaches, with samples from brain, digestive tract, and plasma.

Ideal applicants should have a background in molecular biology, nutrition, metabolism, animal physiology, or feeding behaviour. Prior experience in related laboratory techniques and biological analysis would be an advantage.

Supervisors: Marianne Houssier (Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour) and Stéphane Panserat (INRAE).

Deadline: 26 June 2026. Start date: October–December 2026.

Interested candidates should contact Marianne Houssier at [email protected] for further information and application guidance.