The University of Camerino invites expressions of interest from postdoctoral researchers wishing to develop an MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship project in the area of mosquito vector biology, microbial ecology, and host–microbe interactions. This research opportunity is hosted by Prof. Guido Favia at the School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine and is particularly suited to applicants interested in vector-borne diseases and innovative microbiota-based control strategies. The topic combines molecular biology, microbiology, genomics, and environmental biology within an internationally connected research environment.

Supervisor

Prof. Guido Favia is Full Professor of Parasitology at the University of Camerino and Deputy Rector for Research. His scientific activity focuses on the role of microbial symbionts in mosquito physiology, immunity, and vector competence, with pioneering contributions to the study of microbiota-based strategies for the control of mosquito-borne diseases. Over the years, he has developed an interdisciplinary research profile at the intersection of parasitology, vector biology, microbiology, genomics, and ecology, and has supervised numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in an international research context.

Research Group and Facilities

The project will be developed in a research environment equipped with a wide range of infrastructures for experimental work on mosquito vectors and microbial interactions. The hosting facilities include an insectary with seven mosquito species, a parasitology laboratory with optical, fluorescence and scanning microscopy, microbiological laboratories, biomolecular platforms with PCR systems, and omics-oriented facilities. The group is part of a broad international research network and collaborates with leading institutions in Europe, the United States, and Brazil, offering the fellow opportunities for scientific exchange, visibility, and collaboration in the field of vector symbiosis and mosquito control.

Research Topic / Project Idea

Mosquito-borne diseases remain one of the major global health challenges, and increasing attention is being paid to the role of the mosquito microbiota in shaping vector competence, environmental adaptation, and host physiology. Within this context, the proposed topic focuses on microbial competition in mosquito vectors, with particular attention to the interactions that take place among microbial symbionts inside the host and the consequences of these dynamics for vector biology and disease transmission.

The project is positioned within the broader field of microbial ecology and symbiosis in insect vectors and aims to generate new knowledge that may contribute to sustainable control strategies for mosquito-borne pathogens. By combining molecular and ecological approaches, the research can support the development of innovative interventions based on microbial manipulation and symbiotic control. The topic is especially attractive for candidates interested in translating basic research on host–microbe interactions into future applications in public health and vector management.

Candidate Profile and Career Development

The ideal candidate should hold a PhD in biology or a closely related field, with relevance to microbiology, genetics, or vector biology. During the fellowship, the researcher will have the opportunity to strengthen competences in entomology, molecular biology, and environmental microbiology, while working in a multidisciplinary setting that brings together parasitology, microbiology, genomics, and bioinformatics. The fellowship is designed to support both scientific independence and long-term career development in a highly relevant field of contemporary life sciences.

Contact

Prof. Guido Favia – guido.favia@unicam.it