Postdoc of Cell and Developmental Biology

Department of Biology
Faculty of Science

University of Copenhagen

Postdoc position at the Department of Biology (BIO)

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated post-doctoral researcher for a 2-year position, commencing on April 1, 2024, or after agreement.
The postdoc’s duties will include research within cell and developmental Biology as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.
Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/ . Inquiries about the position can be made to Head of Department, Niels Kroer.

Our research
We study the primary cilium, a surface-exposed sensory organelle that coordinates cellular signaling during development and in tissue homeostasis, and when defective results in numerous diseases and pleiotropic syndromes called ciliopathies that affect most tissues and organs in our body. We employ a variety of different approaches, from biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics and imaging to mammalian cell cultures, organoids and zebrafish models, to study the mechanisms by which primary cilia assemble, disassemble, and function to coordinate cellular signaling networks during development and in tissue homeostasis. Our ambition is to perform research on the highest level and publish in high-quality international journals. We have a very inclusive working environment and a large network of national and international collaborators. More information about our research can be found at www1.bio.ku.dk/english/research/cbp/cilia/

Your job
Your job will focus on deciphering novel mechanisms by which mutations in neurodegeneration genes lead to primary cilia defects, whereby the brain is abnormally developed and becomes more vulnerable to degeneration later in life. The project will include work on stem cell lines, phenotypic characterization in cerebral organoid systems and methods for analysis of changes in development, e.g. proteomics, spatial transcriptomics and immunofluorescence microcopy. The postdocs’s responsibilities will primarily consist of:

• Research, including publication/academic dissemination duties.
• Limited research-based teaching.

Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the competencies and experience outlined below.

Essential experience and skills:

• You have a PhD in cell biology, developmental biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related fields.
• Hands-on experience with (stem) cell cultures and cerebral organoids.
• You have an active interest in brain development.
• Proficient communication skills and ability to work in teams.
• Excellent English skills written and spoken.

Desirable experience and skills:

• Primary cilia research
• Fluorescence microscopy

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

Place of employment
The place of employment is at BIO, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment with modern research facilities. Information on BIO can be found at: https://www1.bio.ku.dk/english/

Scientific environment
BIO is based on a legacy of outstanding researchers and is today one of the largest institutes at the University of Copenhagen. The Department has a very unique research and study environment with strong basic research and versatile education in biology, biochemistry, molecular biomedicine and bioinformatics. Students and researchers work together across a vibrant and engaging environment that contributes to our impressive publication list and great funding success. Inquiries about the position can be made to the Head of Department, Niels Kroer. 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 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 application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

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 February 16, 23:59 GMT+1

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 will be held mid March or as soon as possible thereafter.

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.