M2 Fundamental Microbiology

Shaping the future of Microbiology:

Explore, Understand, Innovate

Keywords : Fundamental mechanisms; Genomics; Microbial physiology; Evolutionary overview (bacteria, archaea, eukaryotic microorganisms, viruses); Multi-scale integration (molecules, genomes, cells, interactions); Research immersion; International openness.

The Fundamental Microbiology program leverages recent advances in genetics, genomics, cell biology, and microbial physiology to deliver multidisciplinary training through research and for research. It offers the opportunity to study microorganisms using targeted, global, and/or genetic engineering approaches, with molecular, cellular, or integrated analysis scales (microbial communities, host organisms). The program spans a wide array of models (bacteria, archaea, eukaryotic microorganisms, viruses) and topics to explore and master the immense diversity of microbial processes.

The program emphasizes research immersion and international openness to prepare students for modern challenges in microbiology.

The M2 training program consists of theoretical courses on:

Molecular and Cellular Microbiology,
Functional genomics,
Microbial interactions,
An introduction to synthetic microbiology concepts, and
The use of bioinformatics tools for data analysis.

These theoretical foundations are complemented by a three-week practical course in Integrative Microbiology. Labeled as a “Paris-Saclay” initiative, this course is structured around flagship themes of the Paris-Saclay microbiology community and is primarily conducted in I2BC or MICALIS laboratories. It immerses students in real-world research environments, as teaching occurs directly within research institutes, with active involvement from research teams.

Skills

• Fundamental knowledge concerning the diversity of the microbial world and the fields of genetics, genomics and microbial cell biology

• Experimental know-how of targeted and global approaches in the field of Microbiology (from design to data analysis and interpretation)

• Know-how in the field of bioinformatics analysis of data sets (level : initiation to the use of R)

• Communication in English in the scientific context

• Project management, analysis and reporting of results according to international standards

• Ability to work in teams

Research Internship:

Students undertake a six-month M2 internship in a laboratory, providing hands-on research training in a microbiology-related field. This internship equips students with experimental techniques, project-writing skills, and oral scientific communication proficiency. Internships can be completed in Paris-Saclay laboratories (e.g. I2BC, MICALIS, IDEEV), renowned research institutions (e.g., Institut Pasteur, Institut Jacques Monod), regional facilities, or internationally.

Career and Further Study Outcomes (2016–2023):

60% PhD continuation rate: Over half of M2 graduates pursue doctoral studies.
12% enter the workforce at Bac+5 level in roles such as research engineers, teachers, or communication officers within research institutions.
20% continue other studies in fields like ENS programs, medical pathways, or clinical research associate roles

Career Prospects:

Career pathways include both research and alternative fields:

Primary career path: Experimental research in academic or private sectors, in laboratories based in Paris-Saclay (e.g. I2BC, MICALIS, IDEEV), major research centers (e.g., Institut Pasteur, Institut Jacques Monod), regional institutions, or abroad.
Other opportunities: R&D in biotechnology, teaching, scientific monitoring, and science communication.

PDF - Flyer M2 Fundamental Microbiology

CONTACTS

Supervisors

Pr Olga Soutourina
olga.soutourina@universite-paris-saclay.fr

Pr Stéphanie Bury-Moné
stephanie.bury-mone@universite-paris-saclay.fr

Secretary

Solène Florentin
solene.florentin@universite-paris-saclay.fr