Postdoctoral researcher in islet physiology, inflammation and obesity

Department of biology
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen

The Knudsen laboratory in the Section for Cell biology and Physiology currently have an opening for a postdoctoral researcher with experience in obesity, metabolism and islet physiology.

Our research and the Section

We are interested in the fundamental mechanisms that control hormone secretion from pancreatic islets. We study these basic mechanisms using biochemical assays, advanced microscopy, in situ perfusion, cell culture, mouse and human islets as wells as genetically modified mouse models. We are a part of a diverse section formed by labs that are interested in the molecular underpinnings of physiology. The groups work in a wide array of fields such as cancer, exercise physiology, primary cilia, adipose tissue, metagenomics and purinergic signaling. This diversity offers access to a wide array of methods and expertise within cell biology and physiology.

Your job

Obesity is associated with increased circulating levels of glucagon and this contributes to the increased diabetes risk. Although, we have known this for a very long time, it is unclear what the underlying mechanisms are. Your task will be to explore how obesity changes alpha cell and islet function, and how this affects whole body metabolism. In your work, you will use genetically modified animal models for in vivo experiments, FACS analysis and advanced microscopy to identify novel molecular mechanisms that lead to hypersecretion of glucagon in obesity. In addition, you will also mentor master and bachelor students affiliated with you project.     

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the following competencies and experience:

You have a PhD in Biology, physiology or biomedicine.
You have a high degree of experience with in vivo mouse experiments.
You have experience in immunology.
You have experience in pharmacology.
You have extensive experience with microsurgery on small animal models.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work in teams.
Excellent English skills written and spoken.

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 Assistant Professor Jakob G Knudsen at [email protected].

The position is open from the 1 May 2023or as soon as possible thereafter.

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.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

- Curriculum vitae

- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)

- Cover letter

- Complete publication list

- Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 30 March 2023, 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/ .

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.