Assistant Professorship Integrative Evolutionary Morphology

Updated: over 2 years ago
Deadline: 08 Oct 2021

Integrative Evolutionary Morphology
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen, Denmark


The Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a 3-year position as Assistant Professor in Integrative Evolutionary Morphology. The position is to be filled by January 1st 2022.


About the position
The position is dedicated to organism-based interdisciplinary research, specifically related to morphological phenotype and its relation to ecological and evolutionary factors. Research will focus on linking organismal phenotypes with their genetic backgrounds, by integrating phenotypic and phylogenetic (or genomic) data. This will mainly be done through digital imaging of biological specimens, using cutting-edge techniques like X-ray micro-computed tomography combined with geometric morphometrics. The applicant is expected to work together with the the University of Copenhagen’s Zoology Museum (part of The Natural History Museum of Denmark) and the Department of Computer Science (DIKU) to develop computational workflows for the analysis of high-dimensional phenotypes. Other responsibilities include research-based teaching, co-supervising students, public engagement, citizen science, and serving as a liaison between natural and computer sciences within the field of evolutionary biology.


Qualifications/profile
Applicants are expected to have knowledge of classic comparative anatomy, modern taxonomy/systematics, and biostatical procedures for analyses of digital phenotypes. A broad understanding of modern and palaeontological collections, to facilitate identification and sourcing of relevant material, is also expected. Key competences include X-ray computed tomography, 3D modelling, museum curation, biostatistics, geometric morphometrics, molecular phylogenetics, comparative anatomy, and vertebrate paleontology.


Assessment of applicants will primarily consider their level of documented, original scientific production at an international level, including contributions to developments in their field, scientific profile, as well as documented teaching qualifications. Ability to attract external funding will also be considered as will managerial and out-reach qualifications.


Terms of employment
The position is open from January 1st 2022 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.


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

Further information

For more information about the Department of Biology, please visit our web-site https://www1.bio.ku.dk/english/ .

Inquiries about the position can be made to Head of Department, Professor Niels Kroer ([email protected] ).


Copenhagen is one of the 10 most livable cities in the world with a rich culture within music, theater and associations. Life for families is made easy by a publicly supported daycare and health care system, dual career opportunities, maternity leave and six weeks of annual vacation. International candidates may find information on living and working in Denmark at www.workindenmark.dk . Useful information is also available at The International Staff Mobility office (ISM) at the University of Copenhagen (https://ism.ku.dk ). ISM offers a variety of services to international researchers coming to and working at the University of Copenhagen.

Filing of application

The application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

  • Curriculum vitae including information about external funding
  • Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
  • Research plan – description of current and future research plans
  • Description and documentation of teaching experience and qualifications according to university guidelines
  • Complete publication list
  • Separate reprints of 5 particularly relevant papers

Deadline for applications is 8 October 2021 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 Appointment Committee.

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

Interviews will be held in October.
Invited candidates may also be invited to visit the Department of Biology, to meet with the faculty and the Head of Department, and to give a research presentation. 

Please refer to the following no. in future communication in this case: 154876


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.



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