Enterococcus cecorum (EC) is an emerging pathogen of broiler chickens and other poultry. It causes a range of severe conditions including bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO), spondylitis, femoral head necrosis, endocarditis, and hepatic granulomas, leading to significant welfare concerns and economic losses worldwide. However, EC is also a normal commensal of the avian intestinal tract, and not all strains are pathogenic.

Phagos has assembled a collection of EC isolates from diverse origins (clinical lesions, cloaca, intestinal contents, environmental samples). A recent literature review has identified a multi-tiered classification framework combining phenotypic assays, PCR markers, and genomic analyses to distinguish pathogenic from commensal strains. In this position, you will apply the phenotypic and microbiological tiers of this framework to the Phagos EC collection.

The main objective is to phenotypically characterise the Phagos EC collection and generate a structured dataset that classifies each isolate along a pathogenic/commensal axis. Specific objectives include:

• Revive and subculture all EC isolates from frozen stocks onto appropriate media.

• Perform mannitol fermentation testing on mannitol salt agar (MSA).

• Determine lysozyme minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC).

• Record colony morphology.

• Assist the team in all routine laboratory tasks.

• Compile all results into a structured database and perform data analysis to assign each isolate a pathogenicity classification tier.

During this internship you will develop competencies in:

• Bacterial culture, including revival from frozen stocks (−80°C glycerol);

• Phenotypic characterisation assays: biochemical testing and lysozyme resistance determination;

• Colony morphology assessment;

• Laboratory data management: structured recording of results, quality control, and traceability;

• Data analysis and visualisation.

Required

• Currently enrolled in a DUT, BTS, bachelor or equivalent technician-level programme in microbiology, biotechnology, biology, or a related life-sciences field

• Basic knowledge of bacteriology (aseptic technique, culture media)

• Rigour, attention to detail, and ability to maintain a well-organised laboratory notebook

• Ability to work both independently and within a small team

Desirable

• Previous laboratory experience

• Familiarity with data entry and basic analysis in Excel

• Interest in veterinary microbiology or avian health

At Phagos we believe the recruitment process begins from the application. This is why we invite you to take your time and thoughtfully complete our application form.

Once we select your profile, we are committed to make sure you have a positive and seamless experience !

Interview #1 with Houa, our Associate Research Scientist

Interview #2 with Adèle, our Co-founder & CTO or with Julia, our Head of In Vivo transition

Interview #3 with Hiba, our HR Generalist