Optimizing Bio-Based Chemistry through Microbial Synergy

IFP Energies nouvelles (IFPEN) est un acteur majeur de la recherche et de la formation dans les domaines de l’énergie, du transport et de l’environnement. De la recherche à l’industrie, l’innovation technologique est au cœur de son action, articulée autour de quatre priorités stratégiques : Mobilité Durable, Energies Nouvelles, Climat / Environnement / Economie circulaire et Hydrocarbures Responsables.

Dans le cadre de la mission d’intérêt général confiée par les pouvoirs publics, IFPEN concentre ses efforts sur :

• l’apport de solutions aux défis sociétaux de l’énergie et du climat, en favorisant la transition vers une mobilité durable et l’émergence d’un mix énergétique plus diversifié ;
• la création de richesse et d’emplois, en soutenant l’activité économique française et européenne et la compétitivité des filières industrielles associées.

Partie intégrante d’IFPEN, l’école d’ingénieurs IFP School prépare les générations futures à relever ces défis.

Optimizing Bio-Based Chemistry through Microbial Synergy

As part of its various research programs, IFP Energies nouvelles is actively involved in developing innovative processes to produce biofuels and bio-based chemical intermediates, leveraging both chemical and biological approaches.

DESCRIPTION 

Most fermentation processes rely on pure strains specifically engineered for targeted applications. However, the use of microbial co-cultures has recently emerged as a promising alternative strategy to address some limitations, including improving fermentation yields, increasing the range of usable products and substrates, and lowering contamination risks. In this context, numerous studies are focused on identifying compatible microbial partners and optimizing their cultivation conditions.

Combined with the genetic engineering of the involved microorganisms, these approaches offer a promising pathway for producing valuable compounds, including chemical intermediates traditionally obtained from petrochemical processes.

As part of this project, the intern will contribute to laboratory work, using various methodologies to study anaerobic microorganisms in both monocultures and co-cultures, with the goal of optimizing a production process for a key metabolite relevant for bio-based industry. The role also involves performing precise genetic modifications on selected microorganisms using advanced CRISPR-Cas9 technology and assessing the effects of these mutations both in individual and co-culture conditions.

The intern will be welcomed into a friendly and supportive team environment, where quality research is conducted alongside a positive and enjoyable atmosphere.

PROFILE 

Master’s level internship (M1/M2) and equivalent engineering school.

• Motivated by research and laboratory work.
• Equipped with solid theoretical and practical knowledge in microbiology, molecular biology, and fermentation.
• Any prior internship experience in microbiology, molecular biology, or fermentation.
• Critical thinking skills and intellectual curiosity.