Postdoc of Biotechnology

LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center (SIC); København; Sur place; DKK 420 000 - 520 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

University of Copenhagen invites applications for a 24-month postdoctoral position in the Biochemical Engineering group at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences. The project (ULYSSES) aims to transform early cancer detection with a portable biosensor using engineered yeast and AI to identify cancer signatures in urine samples.

The successful candidate will conduct research in yeast Synthetic Biology and biotechnology, contribute to teaching, document results, and collaborate with

Qualifications

• 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
• Document results and facilitate communication and technology transfer with industrial partners
• Relocation to an academic partner for collaboration is a plus

Responsabilités

• Postdoctoral research in biotechnology and synthetic biology.
• Teaching responsibilities as part of the role.
• Documentation of results and communication with partners.

Connaissances

Yeast Synthetic Biology

Genetic Engineering

Biochemistry

Molecular Biology

Independent work

Documentation & communication

Tech transfer with industry

Formation

PhD in Biotechnology or related field

Outils

Gibson Assembly

USER Assembly

Golden Gate Assembly

Recombineering

Gene integration techniques

Description du poste

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Postdoc of Biotechnology

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.

Terms of employment

The position is open from 1 February 2027 or 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.

You can read more about salary levels in the state sector here: www.loenoverblik.dk (In Danish).

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• 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.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

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

Part of the International Alliance of 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.

Contact

Sotirios Kampranis

E-mail: [e-mail]

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.

Further information on the Department is linked at https://plen.ku.dk/english/.

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

Application deadline: 16-10-2026

Employment start: 01-02-2027

Working hours: Full time

Department/Location: Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences