Choose INRAE for Science: your scientific freedom is our priority
As part of the national Choose France for Science programme, France supports international researchers who are confronted with attacks on academic freedom and who are seeking an open and demanding research environment.
Published on 02 May 2025
INRAE is fully committed to this initiative, offering these scientists working conditions that are conducive to ambitious research: academic freedom, dedicated resources, international partnerships and recognition of their career paths.
At INRAE, we defend scientific freedom, inseparable from academic excellence.
Join INRAE: a leading research institute defined by excellence, commitment and a forward-looking vision
INRAE is a leading public research institute, internationally recognised for the quality and impact of its work. It conducts interdisciplinary research into major current challenges:
- Foster sustainable agricultural and food systems
- Develop multi-performance agricultural systems
- Adapt to climate change and manage risks
- Place food at the heart of human health
- Know, preserve and restore biodiversity
- Enable sustainable and circular production and use of natural resources
Joining INRAE means becoming part of a stimulating scientific ecosystem, comprising more than 10,000 researchers, engineers, technicians and support staff, united around shared values: scientific excellence, academic freedom and social responsibility.
Becoming part of INRAE: an environment that matches your scientific ambitions
Our institute enables every researcher to carry out projects with strong potential, within a rigorous and open scientific framework.
A competitive research environment
- Cutting-edge infrastructure with advanced technological platforms that are among the best in the world
- Genuine scientific freedom in the definition and implementation of projects (such as identification of research questions, choice of methods and partnerships)
- Strong ties with European and international scientific networks, encouraging exchanges, mobility and the visibility of research work
- Multi-disciplinary teams, combining scientific, technical and administrative staff
A workplace that respects both individuals and work-life balance
- 8 weeks of paid leave per year
- Up to 100 days of remote work annually
- Flexible working hours to support work-life balance
- A proactive approach to professional equality and inclusion
How to join us
Three-year contracts offered under the “Choose France for Science” initiative
INRAE offers 3-year contracts under the "Choose France for Science" programme
These positions are open to both early-career and senior researchers who hold a PhD, have a strong track record of scientific output, and whose work has been recognized through academic awards or distinctions.
Application guidelines
To express your interest, please send us a detailed CV, a summary of your previous research projects, a proposal outlining the research you wish to conduct at INRAE (aligned with the institute’s research priorities) as well as a statement explaining the context and motivation behind your application.
1. Download the declaration of interest below
2. Send your completed application to: agralife@inrae.fr
After your initial 3-year contract, you may be eligible to apply for a permanent position at INRAE through national recruitment competitions.
Looking ahead: build a long-term career at INRAE through recruitment competitions and Junior Professor Chairs
Junior Professor Chairs (tenure-track)
These positions are intended for researchers who hold a PhD and have already demonstrated excellence in their scientific work. The programme offers experienced scientists the opportunity to join INRAE with a structured path toward a permanent position. It combines research activities with the mentoring and supervision of early-career researchers.
-> Applications until 28 May 2025 - Apply here
Open competitions for Research Directors
This selective competition is open to experienced researchers who hold a PhD, have at least eight years of professional experience, and whose work is recognized internationally. Successful candidates are appointed to senior-level scientific positions with significant responsibilities within INRAE.
-> Applications starting on 17 June 2025 - APPLY HERE
Open competitions for Research Scientists
This competition is open to scientists holding a PhD, a strong track record of high-quality research and strong potential to lead innovative research.
-> Applications starting from the first half of 2026 - Apply here
An internationally recognised quality of life
Living and working in France also means benefiting from a high-quality social, educational and cultural environment, helping you to settle in for the long term.
- Free, high-level public education from nursery to high school, and higher education that is internationally recognised for its excellence in training and research, with tuition fees among the lowest in Europe.
- A high-quality healthcare system, with extensive cover (around 80% of medical costs reimbursed) and broad access to care.
- Comprehensive social protection: including parental leave and unemployment insurance.
Questions about settling in France or your arrival at INRAE?
INRAE’s International Welcome Guide provides key practical information on housing, healthcare, administrative procedures, schooling, and everyday life in France. Take a look to help ensure a smooth and well-prepared arrival.