The main research theme of the unit concerns the characterization of the integrated functioning of the cell and in particular understanding the processes, which, at the molecular level, govern the organization and the overall physiology of the cell.
Researchers carry out their work on different organisms (from viruses to human cells) or on complexes reconstituted in vitro, at different scales and under various physiological conditions. The common objective of this work is modelization of the global functioning of model and non-model organisms and ultimately to predict the impacts of molecular, subcellular and environmental changes on the behavior of normal or pathological cells and tissues.
The total number of staff in the unit generally varies between 600 and 700 people depending on the presence of short-term internships (<1 year).
As of January 1, 2021, the unit has 399 permanent staff and 220 non-permanent staff.
- 231 permanent researchers: 101 from CNRS, 50 from CEA, and 80 university professor-researchers including 69 from UPSaclay.
- 158 permanent technical staff: 107 from CNRS, 21 from CEA and 30 from UPSaclay.
- 220 non-permanent staff: 107 doctoral candidates, 22 post-docs, 37 engineer-technicians and 54 interns from a variety of professional or academic training programs.
Each of the 60 research groups belong to one of the 5 disciplinary departments.