Mission

Task 1: Determination of graviperceptive and proprioceptive sensitivities and of the Balance number B under controlled conditions
This first phase of the project will involve to collect data on the curving and decurving kinetics of wheat shoots using an automated imaging system. These data will be analyzed using image analysis procedures developed in the laboratory for the model plant Arabidopsis and for poplar, which will be adapted to the segmented stem (articulated by pulvinus nodes) of cereals.
Determining graviperceptive and proprioceptive sensitivities through this model-assisted phenotyping approach will then allow us to compare genotypes.

Task 2: Characterization of the sensory and motor properties of collenchyma fibers
The selected student will characterize the cellular elongation of collenchyma fibers between the faces of the pulvini during the curving and decurving phases. They will conduct experiments aiming at advancing our understanding of this phenomenon by analyzing the physiological (hormonal gradients and water movements), cellular (actin network organization), and molecular (gene expression) mechanisms that integrate gravi- and proprioceptive responses.

Task 3: Modeling the postural control of wheat stalks and sensitivity analysis
The selected student will participate in the conceptualization of a biophysical model to be implemented in collaboration with the team’s biophysicists. A sensitivity analysis of all model parameters will be conducted to determine which traits most strongly influence postural control.
The model’s validity will be tested by comparing its outputs with the experimental data from Task 1.

Task 4: Study of genetic variability in the field
A campaign to measure the genetic variability of resilience to lodging will be conducted in collaboration with the UMR GDEC (Genetics, Diversity, and Ecophysiology of Cereals).
Beginning :
September 2026
Duration :
Contract (36 months)
Deadline for applications :
May 25, 2026

Prerequisites

Bac + 5
Two types of candidates will be considered for this thesis:

- Either a Master’s 2 student in biology with expertise in plant physiology as well as data analysis and statistics.
- Or a Master’s 2 student in physics or biophysics with an interest in plant biology.

In both cases, the candidate must demonstrate motivation and an interest in plant biology and interdisciplinary research. Additionally, prior experience in conducting plant experiments is preferred.
The thesis will include a visit (several months) to a laboratory abroad. Mobility and fluency in scientific English are therefore essential.
Address :
Email :
melanie.decourteix@uca.fr