ExposUM Doctoral Nexus: 2026 thesis topics now open for applications
What is the ExposUM Doctoral Nexus program?
The Doctoral Nexus networks offered by the ExposUM Institute consist of 3 to 4 doctoral researchers from different disciplines who are affiliated with at least two different research units.
Compared to a traditional dissertation, participating in a Doctoral Nexus will enhance your ability to work in a team and design projects in a transdisciplinary manner, while deepening your expertise in your own field.
A specialized training program will be offered, and the participating doctoral students will also have the opportunity to organize a seminar within the Nexus network.
Ph.D. programs are funded for four years from the outset, covering the student’s salary as well as a budget for research expenses.
On the following page, you will find the ExposUM Doctoral Nexus projects that were selected in the 2026 Doctoral Nexus Call for Proposals.
How do I apply?
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications, strictly adhering to the specific application procedure and the deadline indicated in the thesis topics. Please note that the application deadline varies depending on the topic.
Thesis topics open for applications
Nexus EXPERT “The microbial EXposome and drivers of persistent infections in humans: an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the interplay between bacterial pathogens of environmental and zoonotic origins and the host’s innate immune system”
- Topic 1: “Persistent human infections caused by environmental and foodborne pathogens: Are they driven by the macrophage niche?”
- Topic 2: “Persistent human infections caused by emerging environmental pathogens of the genus Achromobacter: pathogenic potential and the importance of the bacterium-phagocyte interaction”
- Topic 3: “Mesoscale mathematical modeling of bacterial persistence”
Nexus KIDIHEALTH “Modulation of environmental and intrinsic determinants of physical frailty in patients with chronic kidney disease. A holistic health approach”
- Topic 1: “The Impact of Adapted Physical Activity and Nutrition on Life Trajectories and the Prevention of Frailty in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease”
- Topic 2: “Metabolic and cardiovascular responses to environmental changes (exercise and diet) in animal models and in patients with renal failure”
- Topic 3: “Modulation of the gut microbiota through adapted physical activity and diet to prevent physical frailty in chronic kidney disease”
Nexus Nutri-CART “Nutrition as a New Therapeutic Tool for Improving the Treatment of Malignant Hematological Diseases Using CAR-T Cells”
- Topic 1: “Assessment of the Impact of Metabolism on the Antitumor Response of CAR-T Cells”
- Topic 2: “Assessment of the impact of nutrition on metabolism and T-cell proliferation/persistence through TCR clonotyping in patients and in mouse models”
- Topic 3: “Increasing patient involvement in dietary management for those receiving CAR-T immunotherapy: improving information and communication from scientists and medical staff.”
Nexus SENS-ALIM “Emotional Sensitivities and Nutrition: Behaviors and Decisions”
- Topic 1: “Gaining a Better Understanding of How Consumers’ Eco-Emotions Influence Responsible Behavior: An Application to Food”
- Topic 2: “Food Aversion, Avoidance Behaviors, and Immunity”
- Topic 3: “Food Education and Emotional Skills”
- Topic 4: “The Impact of Refined Carbohydrate Consumption on Decision-Making in Young Adults”
Nexus ECO-MAIRE “e-Cohort of French Mayors: External Exposome, Health, and Entrepreneurial Vitality”
- Topic 1: “The Relationship Between the Demands of Office and Mayors’ Mental Health: A Study of the Moderating Role of the External Exposome”
- Topic 2: “An Etiological Study of the External Exposome’s Impact on Mayors’ Physical and Mental Health”
- Topic 3: “A Study of the Links Between Mayors’ Mental Health and Entrepreneurial Drive”