Postdoc of Biotechnology

KU; København; On-site; DKK 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Copenhagen invites applications for a 24-month Post-doctoral position in the Biochemical Engineering group within the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences. The project focuses on transforming early cancer detection via a portable biosensor, drawing on synthetic biology and yeast biosensors, with industry collaboration.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology or Biochemistry and have strong English language skills.

Qualifications

• PhD or postdoctoral experience in yeast Synthetic Biology or related field.
• Theoretical and hands-on expertise in molecular biology and biochemistry.
• Ability to work independently and see projects through to completion.
• Construct designed strains using Gibson, USER or Golden Gate assembly and targeted strain recombineering.
• Culture and evaluate constructed yeast strains using small-scale cultivations and assays.
• Document project results and communicate with industrial partners.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research within biotechnology and synthetic biology.
• Contribute to teaching duties as required.
• Collaborate with industrial partners for technologie transfer.

Skills

Independent work

Documentation

Communication

Education

PhD in Biotechnology

Tools

Gibson assembly

USER assembly

Golden Gate

Recombineering

Job description

We are inviting applications for a Post-doctoral position of 24 months in the research group of Biochemical Engineering at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at the University of Copenhagen ( https://plen.ku.dk/english/research/plant_biochemistry/be/ ) . The research group, headed by Prof. Sotirios Kampranis ( Sotirios Kampranis) , explores and engineers nature’s sensing capabilities, using synthetic biology and biochemical engineering to develop innovative biosensors, devices and technologies that address challenges in human health, environmental monitoring and society.

The focus of the present project (ULYSSES) is to transform early cancer detection by developing a portable and non-invasive biosensor capable of identifying breast and prostate cancer signatures directly from urine samples. The project takes inspiration from the highly sensitive olfactory system of C. elegans and brings together synthetic biology, engineered yeast biosensors, VOC profiling and artificial intelligence. The research focuses on understanding cancer-specific VOC signatures and translating biological olfactory recognition into an easy-to-use diagnostic platform with potential applications in early cancer screening and personalized medicine.

Skills and experience required or highly desired for the position:

• PhD or postdoctoral experience in yeast Synthetic Biology, Genetic Engineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• Theoretical and hands‑on expertise in molecular biology and biochemistry
• Ability to work independently and see projects through to completion
• Construct designed strains using standard molecular cloning techniques including Gibson, USER or Golden Gate assembly and targeted strain recombineering and gene integration methods
• Culture and evaluate constructed yeast strains using small‑scale (plate and flask‑scale) cultivations and assays.
• Thoroughly document project results and progress, and facilitate clear communication and technology transfer with industrial partners
• Possibility of relocation to an academic partner for collaboration is a plus.

Formal requirements:

• Applicants should be fluent in both spoken and written English.
• Applicants should have a PhD degree in relevant topics, such as Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Metabolic Engineering or Biochemistry.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within biotechnology and synthetic biology as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is open from 1 February 2027or as soon as possible thereafter.

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 16-10-2026, 23:59 GMT +2.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

Interviews are expected to be be held from 2 to 6 of November, 2026.

Part of the InternationalAllianceof Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.

Department/Location:

Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences

Contact:

University of Copenhagen
[e-mail]