Fixed-term
PhD position for a project titled- Top-down controls of microbial biomass in supraglacial habitats
Research area and project description:The Department of Environmental Science at Aarhus University, Denmark, is offering a PhD position in Arctic microbial ecology, starting 15 January 2027 or earliest possible thereafter. The overarching aim of this PhD project is to uncover the top-down controls regulating algal and cyanobacterial biomass on the surface of the Greenland Ice Sheet. This is part of a collaboration between Aarhus University and Copenhagen University to identify how viruses, grazers and parasitic fungi influence primary producer populations in supraglacial habitats. The project is funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark. The project in a nutshell: Glaciers and ice sheets are increasingly recognized as dynamic ecosystems, home to diverse and metabolically active microbial life. During the summer melt season, eukaryotic algae such as Chlorophyceae and Streptophyta emerge on the snow and on the living skin of ice surfaces of the Greenland Ice Sheet, reducing surface albedo and accelerating melt. Cryoconite holes, which are sediment-filled melt pockets perforating the glacier surfaces, are dominated by cyanobacteria. These phototrophic communities are key players and ecosystem engineers in supraglacial (i.e., the different habitats at the surface of glaciers and ice sheets) biogeochemistry and ice melt. However, while the roles of microbial primary producers have been well documented, the fate of their biomass and the extent to which it is shaped by top-down biological controls remains largely unexplored. The role of the PhD student in this project will be particularly focused on the following objectives: 1) the characterization of the abundance, community structure, and grazing activity of protozoan consumers in cryoconite holes and ice surface and 2) the determination of the occurrence, infection dynamics, and ecological effects of chytrid fungi on algal populations in different supraglacial habitats. The PhD student will closely collaborate with a postdoc at Copenhagen University who will investigate the role of viruses on microbial mortality on glaciers. Furthermore, to contextualise viral infection, grazing and fungal infection rates, the PhD student will collaborate and have a 3-month international stay at Marseille University to use empirical data to develop a mortality model for supraglacial algae and cyanobacteria, quantifying losses attributable to viral lysis, grazing, and parasitism. You must upload a project description (not AI generated) about how do you intend to approach the objectives of the project. Project description (½-4 pages): This document should describe your ideas and research plans for this specific project. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found. Qualifications and specific competences:We are searching for a highly motivated candidate who has an M.Sc. degree in biology, microbiology, environmental sciences, ecology, or closely related fields. Demonstrated oral and written communication skills in English are required. The applicant is expected to present results at international conferences and publish them in international peer-reviewed journals. The applicant should be interested in working in an international and interdisciplinary academic environment. Further, we would prefer candidates with the following qualifications: Experience in microbial ecology techniques (e.g., fluorescence microscopy, molecular ecology, incubation experiments, use of isotopes). Understanding and experience of work in remote conditions (e.g., Arctic, glaciers) and an ability to organize and participate in complex fieldwork. Good skills in laboratory work. An ability to communicate effectively in English and contribute to dissemination and reporting research outcome in high-impact scientific journals. Collaborative and interpersonal skills and will to contribute positively to the working environment. Place of employment and place of work:The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark. Contacts:Applicants seeking further information regarding the PhD position are invited to contact: Alexandre Anesio, ama@envs.au.dk (main supervisor) Rumakanta Sapkota, rs@envs.au.dk (co-supervisor) For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see our application guide. If answers cannot be found there, please contact: admission.gradschool.tech@au.dk How to apply:Please follow this link to submit your application. Application deadline is 15 September 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Preferred starting date is 15 January 2027. Please note: Only documents received prior to the application deadline will be evaluated. Thus, documents sent after deadline will not be considered. The programme committee may request further information or invite the applicant to attend an interview. Shortlisting will be used, which means that the evaluation committee only will evaluate the most relevant applications. Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background. Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with applicable collective agreement. Application Form
PhD position for a project titled- Investigating the tissue pathology of osteoarthritis and mining for potential early disease biomarkers
Research area and project description:We invite applicants for a PhD position focused on advancing our understanding of the tissue pathology of osteoarthritis and identification of potential early biomarkers for the disease. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of lameness and pain in husbandry animals, e.g. horses, dogs, goats and pigs, and one of the major causes of disability in humans. In this project we aim to employ a highly innovative laser capture microdissection mass spectrometry (LCM-MS)-based strategy to unravel the pathology and identify a panel of osteoarthritis related proteins in existing joint tissue samples from an equine model for osteoarthritis. We will evaluate the potential of the identified proteins as biomarkers for early osteoarthritis disease progression in bodily fluids from the equine model and from species (animals and humans) with naturally occurring osteoarthritis. Furthermore, we will use in situ hybridization to map the homing of stem cells in the joint tissue samples. The PhD candidate will: Design a method for and carry out laser capture microdissection of histological joint tissue samples Design and perform sampling of bodily fluids (e.g. blood samples, synovial fluid, and urine) from different species Optimize method and prepare samples for mass spectrometry (DIA-MS) analysis and assist sample analysis Design and perform method for in situ hybridization Analyse data in R Publish scientific papers and present at conferences Part of the project will take place at DTU Bioengineering in the Copenhagen area. Project description: For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. Please simply copy the project description above and upload it as a PDF in the application. Qualifications and specific competences:Applicants must have a relevant master’s degree (120 ECTS) in veterinary medicine, medicine, biomedicine, molecular biology or a related field. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with: Knowledge of osteoarthritis disease pathology Interest in histology and laser capture microdissection Interest in mass spectrometry and omics data analysis Interest in in situ hybridization Skills with programming in R is an advantage Place of employment and place of work:The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is AU Viborg, Blichers Alle 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark. Contacts:Applicants seeking further information regarding the PhD position are invited to contact: Louise Bundgaard, loubun@anivet.au.dk (main supervisor) For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see our application guide. If answers cannot be found there, please contact: admission.gradschool.tech@au.dk How to apply:Please follow this link to submit your application. Application deadline is 15 August 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Preferred starting date is 01 November 2026. Please note: Only documents received prior to the application deadline will be evaluated. Thus, documents sent after deadline will not be considered. The programme committee may request further information or invite the applicant to attend an interview. Shortlisting will be used, which means that the evaluation committee only will evaluate the most relevant applications. Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which everyone has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background. Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with applicable collective agreement. Application Form
PhD fellowship under the project- Controlling Potato Lipolysis and Oxidation Suppression for High-Quality Protein Recovery
Applicants are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Technical Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Food Science programme. The position is available from 01 October 2026 or later. You can submit your application via the link under ‘how to apply’. Title:Controlling Potato Lipolysis and Oxidation Suppression for High-Quality Protein Recovery Research area and project description:Today, potato food-grade protein side-stream is underutilized for human consumption due to off-flavors. This protein-rich side-stream, a by-product of potato starch production, amounts to approximately 100 kton of protein annually in the EU, alone. Unlike many other plant proteins, potato protein offers excellent nutritional value with a complete essential amino acid profile and good functional properties as a food ingredient. Although already approved for human consumption, its application in food products is limited, and most of it is currently used as animal feed. Recent studies within our group suggest that lipolysis and lipid oxidation initiated by endogenous potato enzymes are key contributors to off-flavor formation. Although lipids only constitute ~0.3% of the raw potato, the high proportion of phospholipids and polyunsaturated fatty acids provides ample substrate for enzymatic degradation. The enzymes patatin (a group of multifunctional lipases) and LOX are known contributors to lipid breakdown and oxidation in other plant systems, yet their specific roles and interactions during potato protein processing remain poorly understood. The lack of detailed knowledge about the enzymatic and chemical pathways leading to off-flavour formation, especially during the extraction and concentration of potato protein, represents a major scientific gap and an industrial bottleneck. Your primary focus will be conducting research to create fundamental understanding to convert the unutilized, protein-rich plant side-streams into a valuable food ingredient. We aim to screen a variety of potatoes for enzymatic activity to find the best performing varieties. You will specifically target identification of off-flavor molecules found in the high-quality protein side-streams from potato starch production—compounds that currently prevent these proteins from being used in food. The focus will be to understand the chemistry of the matrix and chemistry taking place during processing. A primary focus will be to identify effective procedure for enzyme inhibition either as a part of downstream processing or by adding inhibitors. The candidate must be interested in combining chemistry and downstream processing. Be aware that teaching is part of your obligations. Project description. For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. Please simply copy the project description above and upload it as a PDF in the application. Qualifications and specific competences:Applicants to the PhD position must have a master’s degree in Food Science, Food Chemistry and Technology, Chemistry, or other relevant areas. Place of employment and place of work:The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Food Science, Section of Food Chemistry, Agro Food Park 48, 8200 Aarhus N., Denmark. Contacts:Applicants seeking further information regarding the PhD position are invited to contact: Trine Kastrup Dalsgaard, trine.dalsgaard@food.au.dk (main supervisor) Niki Alexi, niki.alexi@food.au.dk (co-supervisor) For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see our application guide. If answers cannot be found there, please contact: admission.gradschool.tech@au.dk How to apply:Please follow this link to submit your application. Application deadline is 14 August 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Preferred starting date is 01 October 2026. Please note: Only documents received prior to the application deadline will be evaluated. Thus, documents sent after deadline will not be considered. The programme committee may request further information or invite the applicant to attend an interview. Shortlisting will be used, which means that the evaluation committee only will evaluate the most relevant applications. Application Form
PhD fellowship under the project- Development of biohybrid interlocked molecules for precise cell regulation
Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Molecular Biology and Genetics programme. The position is available from November 2026 or later. Title:Development of biohybrid interlocked molecules for precise cell regulation Research area and project description:Are you passionate about biomolecular design? Are you interested in developing dynamic systems and molecular motors for precise cell regulation? A 3-year PhD position is available for the development of biohybrid interlocked nucleic acids in the group of Assist. Professor Julián Valero, located at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO) at Aarhus University. The position is available from November 2026 or shortly after. The aim of the project is to develop a novel class of nucleic-acid based, biohybrid interlocked molecules (BIMs) for precise biomolecular regulation. This research involves a multifaceted approach, including: i) the design and assembly of nucleic acid-based interlocked motors and switches; ii) establishing the principles to operate them in vitro and in cells; iii) study of their properties and functions for enhanced cell regulation; and iv) application of these adaptative systems for reversible control of cell function, further exploring their potential biomedical use. This position is part of an EU funded ERC interdisciplinary, collaborative project at the interface between nucleic-acid chemistry, DNA/RNA nanotechnology and cell biology. For technical reasons, you must upload a project description. When – as here – you apply for a specific project, please simply copy the project description above, and upload it as a PDF in the application. If you wish to, you can indicate an URL where further information can be found. Qualifications and specific competences:Applicants must have a relevant Master’s degree or in the process of getting a Master’s degree in nanoscience, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related fields, preferably with a good track record. You should have hands-on experience in nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) experimental work. The ideal candidate should possess knowledge in cell culture, cellular assays (microscopy, flow cytometry). Background on DNA and RNA nanotechnology and nucleic acid chemistry/bioconjugation reactions is a plus. You are a team-player, collaborative and highly motivated to pursue scientific milestones of high standard. You are curious and self-driven, willing to learn new techniques. You should enjoy working on multidisciplinary projects and solving nanotechnology and synthetic biology challenges. Good communications skills in written and oral English, as this will be part of your daily work. Place of employment and place of work:The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, (iNANO), Denmark. Contacts:Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact: Assistant Professor Julián Valero, jvalero@mbg.au.dk How to apply: For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying. When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 June 2026) Choose August 2026 Call with deadline 1 August 2026 at 23:59 CEST. You will be directed to the call and must choose the programme “Molecular Biology and Genetics”. In the boxed named “Study”: In the dropdown menu, please choose: “Development of biohybrid interlocked molecules for precise cell regulation (Dbimpc)” Please note: The programme committee may request further information or invite the applicant to attend an interview. Apply Now
Postdoctoral in Biogeochemical Modeling in Agroecosystems
The Department of Agroecology at Aarhus University, Denmark, is offering a postdoctoral position in Biogeochemical Modeling in Agroecosystems, starting December 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position will be available for a two-year period, with possibility of extension. You will be part of a research environment focusing on estimating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, reactive nitrogen dynamics, and climate change mitigation potentials in agroecosystems. You will be contributing specifically to the area of regional simulation using process-based models and advanced statistical methods for approaches such as model-data fusion techniques. The main focus of your position will be to develop and apply a scalable process-based modeling framework to evaluate climate-smart management strategies across Denmark, which includes but not limited to nitrification inhibitors and other fertilizer management strategies. A key part of this work will be performing uncertainty analysis and model calibration to support reliable regional projections. Your work will play a vital role in mapping regional mitigation hotspots and assessing the trade-offs between nutrient use efficiency (NUE), nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, and other reactive nitrogen losses from agroecosystems. We expect that you will be an important part of the research environment and that you will contribute positively to the social working environment. We also expect that you will take part in our teaching activities and that you will report research results in high-impact scientific journals. Your profile We are searching for a highly motivated candidate who has: A PhD in agronomy, engineering, biology, technical oriented sciences or similar. Research experience on process-based models (e.g. DayCent, DNDC, or similar) to simulate carbon, nitrogen, and water flows in agroecosystems. A solid background in uncertainty quantification, applied statistics, Bayesian calibration, and Monte Carlo simulations. Strong skills in scientific scripting (R, Python) and programming. Experience with High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments and the management/analysis of large datasets. The ability to communicate effectively in English (both written and oral). The ability to collaborate within teams and across disciplines. Documented experience in scientific writing and publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Who we are At the Department of Agroecology, our main goal is to contribute to sustainable solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems within the areas of soil, plants, animals, humans, and the environment. We want to make a difference by contributing to both fundamental knowledge generation and the attainment of sustainable production systems via innovative research, contracted policy advice, and education. We offer professional laboratories, greenhouses, semi-field, and field-scale research facilities, advanced computing capacities as well as an extensive national and international researcher network. The department consists of nine research sections with around 350 highly skilled employees, of which approximately 50% are scientific staff. More information can be found here. We believe in encouraging inclusion, acceptance, and understanding by employing staff who bring unique perspectives to our department. What we offer A collaborative, international research environment that combines high academic standards with an informal and supportive atmosphere. We value accountability, curiosity, flexibility, and teamwork in everything we do. An inclusive and respectful workplace culture, where mutual trust, kindness, and professional dialogue are part of daily life. We encourage open communication and develop a cohesive sense of community across teams and disciplines. A flexible working environment that supports work-life balance and individual needs. An active institutional commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion – in recruitment, career development, and everyday interactions. An innovative and meaningful workplace where your work contributes to solving real-world challenges. No two days are alike, and we welcome creative thinking and new ideas. Support for international researchers and their families, including Relocation Service and an Expat Partner Programme Living and working in Denmark Subsidised childcare and free education from primary school through university. Universal healthcare for you and your family as residents. Five weeks of paid holiday per year. Generous parental leave – up to 52 weeks shared between parents, with full or partial salary. Place of Work The place of work is Aarhus University, Campus Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele, Denmark. The affiliation will be with the Department of Agroecology. Contact information More information can be obtained from Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Ram B. Gurung (ram.gurung@agro.au.dk) or Professor Diego Abalos (d.abalos@agro.au.dk). Deadline All applications must be received no later than August 31, 2026. Application procedure Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self. Formalities and salary range Technical Sciences refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Guidelines for applicants can be found here. Appointment shall be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities. Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Associations. Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. Research activities will be evaluated in relation to actual research time. Thus, we encourage applicants to specify periods of leave without research activities, in order to be able to
Research support position in ecological data science
The Department of Biology at Aarhus University invites applications for a 3-year fixed term full-time research support (academic employee) position in the data science team of the Section for Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity, starting October 15, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position supports research and teaching activities across the section and associated research centers, including SustainScapes – Center for Sustainable Landscapes under Global Change, ECONOVO – Center for Ecological Dynamics in a Novel Biosphere, Land-CRAFT – Center for Landscape Research in Sustainable Agricultural Futures. Job description Are you motivated to help turn biological data into meaningful insight? Join the Section for Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity and support a broad range of research in an international, interdisciplinary environment. In this research support position, you will use data science and data engineering, together with direct technical support, to advance ecological research while collaborating with researchers, staff, and students on analytical, technical, and teaching-related tasks. Responsibilities include both data-related work and practical technical tasks, such as maintaining computing infrastructure and supporting field-based research equipment. The position will be part of a team of technical-administrative staff that jointly cover the following areas: Support with handling, analysis, and processing of ecological data, including geospatial, remote sensing, genetic and other data Retrieval, integration, management, and archiving research data in line with FAIR principles Designing and documenting reproducible data workflows to ensure traceability and data integrity Management and maintenance of data and computational infrastructure, including assistance with assessing and acquiring new servers Technical tasks such as hardware maintenance, software setup, firmware updates, and field equipment support Support of teaching in relevant areas Providing advice to BSc, MSc, and PhD students, as well as PostDocs and permanent staff, in the above areas Qualifications Applicants must hold a candidate or PhD in a relevant field (e.g. biology, geography, ecology, geoscience, data science) or have documented extensive experience with research support within these areas. We are seeking applicants with experience working with large and complex ecologically relevant datasets and databases, including both design and analysis experience in analyzing and interpreting different types of ecological data skill in the creation and implementation of data management plans, as well as knowledge of different metadata standards proficiency in two or more relevant programming languages (e.g. Python, R, SQL, Julia or others) a flair for technical tasks involving hardware and software, troubleshooting, firmware updates and maintenance of research equipment the capacity to work in an organized manner, both on your own and as part of a team fluency in English and willingness to learn Danish Experience in the following specific areas might be of advantage: handling of remote sensing data acquired from satellite, airborne, and/or drone platforms geospatial data analysis and use of GIS software (e.g. QGIS) and cloud-based geospatial analysis platforms such as Google Earth Engine statistical modelling, machine learning, cloud/high-performance computing retrieving ecologically relevant environmental data from national to global databases research and/or teaching support The Department of Biology The Department of Biology (www.bio.au.dk) hosts research programs and teaching curricula that cover all major biological sub-disciplines. The Department employs ~ 40 tenured staff, 60 postdocs, 45 PhD-students and 60 technical staff. The Department hosts BSc and MSc study programs in Biology with about 400 students enrolled as well as a PhD program. The working language is English, and we welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The Department’s research encompasses a wide array of basic and applied topics in across biomes, species and methodologies and covers arctic, temperate, and (sub)tropical ecosystems, with an overarching focus on understanding the impact of global changes on ecosystems’ functions. We aim to use this fundamental knowledge acquired to also improve the understanding, planning, and management of natural resources. The department offers a supportive and informal research environment with a long-standing tradition of collaboration with international university partners. Much of the internal communication is in English and we welcome international applicants. Place of employment The place of employment is Aarhus University, Department of Biology, Section for Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity (ECOINF), Ny Munkegade 114, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. Contact information Any questions about the position can be directed to Urs Treier, Research Scientist and Data Science Coordinator, urs.treier@bio.au.dk / +4523348009 or Head of Section for Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity, Professor Wolf Eiserhardt, wolf.eiserhardt@bio.au.dk, +4527782857. For more information about the Section: https://bio.au.dk/forskning/forskningsomraader/ecoinformatics-and-biodiversity/ Application deadline 09 August 2026 Interviews We expect to hold interviews on 31 August 2026. Formalities and salary range Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions. You will be appointed as an academic employee at basic salary steps 4-8 slsguide.sloen.dk/Dokumenter/AC.pdf Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University’s website. Application Form
AC-Bachelor position in Computational Bioacoustics at the Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University
Are you interested in developing new, innovative methods to automate acoustic detection and classification of sounds from marine animals? Do you want to help enable effective conservation and management actions through individual-based and real-time monitoring of animal sounds? Then we invite you to apply for a part-time 1-year AC-Bachelor position in the Department of Ecoscience at Aarhus University. Expected start date and duration of employment This is a 1–year position starting 15 September, 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is for 10 hours of work each week, with at least one day a week on campus. Job description The computational biologist will be expected to: Lead the development of acoustic detection and classification algorithms for marine mammals. Evaluate algorithm performance under real-life operational conditions, ensuring accuracy and efficiency, and identify ways of improving performance. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of marine biologists, engineers and data scientists. Lead and/or contribute to reports and scientific publications Advance marine mammal research and conservation efforts. Your profile Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in physics, computer science, computational biology, or similar fields. The applicant is expected to have demonstrated experience working with state-of-the-art deep learning approaches for detection and/or classification of bioacoustic signals. Extensive experience with programming (Matlab, R, Python) including GPU programming is required, and familiarity with edge-based machine learning (particularly sound event detection), open-set classification, and individual identification of animals is beneficial. Familiarity with quantitative acoustics and with collecting acoustic data in the field is also beneficial. The applicant is expected to have good time management and project management skills and be able to plan and implement programming and computational tasks to reach research objectives within project deadlines. Academic writing and presentation experience is beneficial. The candidate will be expected to document all parts of their work appropriately for reproducibility, contribute to project report writing and presentations and to contribute to research papers. The applicant will be collaborating with a variety of international colleagues. The ability to communicate fluently about research approaches, data, and results in English is critical. The working language in the Department is English. Who we are You will be working within the marine mammal section of the Department of Ecoscience (AU Ecoscience – Marine Mammal Research) and under the supervision of Senior Scientist Frants Havmand Jensen (https://frantsjensen.weebly.com/). The unit conducts research on marine mammals, examining their biology, prevalence, and factors impacting their survival and population growth. Using aerial surveys, telemetry data, and health information, we analyze the effects of human disturbances on individuals and populations. Our work includes national monitoring of marine mammals and underwater noise, and we actively contribute to the development of management initiatives on a national and international scale. As the marine environment faces growing human impacts like fishing, construction noise, ship traffic, chemicals, and climate change, understanding the interactions between factors affecting animal behavior and health becomes crucial. Current projects that you will be contributing to includes collaborative development of algorithms for an acoustic buoy using convolutional neural networks for detection and telemetry of underwater sound events, dolphin population monitoring using individually distinctive signature whistles; and accelerating processing of acoustic tag data. What we offer The Department offers a vibrant research environment with longstanding traditions for collaboration with national and international partners from many different sectors. The working environment at the Department is based on teamwork and close working relations. The Department has a strong work-life balance policy and seeks a good gender and age balance. Read more about the services available when relocating to Aarhus University at www.au.dk/work Place of work and area of employment The place of work is Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark, and the area of employment is Aarhus University, Department of Ecoscience. Contact information For further information, please contact: Senior Scientist Frants Havmand Jensen, fjensen@ecos.au.dk. Deadline Applications must be received no later than 3 August 2026. Formalities and salary range Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions. Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University’s website. Application Form
Postdoctoral in plant physiology and molecular biology of EV-based plant-microbe communication
The Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, invites applications for a two-year postdoc position in plant physiology and molecular biology of EV-based plant-microbe communication. The position is part of the EU-funded EVOLVE project and focuses on controlled-environment biological testing of extracellular vesicles as a non-GMO platform for steering plant performance and plant-microbe interactions. Expected start date and duration of employment This is a two-year fixed-term postdoc position from 1 November 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Job description The postdoc will lead the Department of Food Science’s controlled-environment testing activities in Work Package 5 of the EVOLVE project. The work will generate biological evidence linking extracellular vesicle (EV) treatments to plant physiological and molecular responses and will feed into the project’s design-test-model cycle. The position will also strengthen the unit’s capacity in plant cultivation under controlled and sterile conditions and in EV/miRNA biology. Key tasks: Establish and run reproducible plant cultivation under controlled and, where required, sterile/axenic conditions, including growth chambers, hydroponics and aeroponics. Apply native and synthetic EVs to plants and quantify uptake and whole-plant physiological responses. Isolate and characterise extracellular vesicles from plant material. Analyse molecular responses, including gene expression (RT-qPCR), miRNA/small-RNA profiling and secondary-metabolite profiles. Investigate interactions between EV treatments and bacteria involved in the nitrogen cycle, linking vesicle-based signalling to nutrient-use efficiency. Manage data, perform statistical analysis and exchange results with project partners producing synthetic EVs and modelling the data. Contribute to publications, reporting and dissemination; co-supervise students and support day-to-day laboratory activities. Responsibilities and authority The postdoc will be responsible for the day-to-day execution, quality, and documentation of the WP5 experimental programme, including the controlled-environment and sterile cultivation set-up and the associated molecular and EV analyses. The postdoc will plan and schedule experiments in coordination with Ivan Paponov (PI / EVOLVE coordinator) and Martin Krøyer Rasmussen (co-supervisor), maintain shared protocols and metadata, and report progress to the project. The postdoc is expected to work independently, co-supervise students and contribute actively to the unit’s research environment. Budget and personnel authority remain with the principal investigator. Your profile This position combines plant cultivation and physiology with molecular biology. In-depth expertise in extracellular vesicles and miRNA is available within the supervision team, so strong plant scientists who are motivated to learn EV and small-RNA methods are explicitly encouraged to apply. Required qualifications PhD degree in Plant Science, Plant Physiology, Plant Molecular Biology, Microbiology or a related discipline. Demonstrated experience cultivating plants under controlled environmental conditions, such as growth chambers, hydroponics and/or aeroponics. Hands-on molecular biology experience, including RNA extraction and gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR). Experience in complex data handling and statistical analysis. A publication record in international peer-reviewed journals relative to career stage. Excellent written and spoken English and experience in collaborative, cross-cultural research environments. Experience in supervising students and teaching. The following will be considered an advantage Extracellular vesicle isolation and characterisation, such as ultracentrifugation/SEC, nanoparticle tracking analysis and electron microscopy. Small-RNA/miRNA profiling, including small RNA-seq and/or RT-qPCR. Sterile/axenic or gnotobiotic plant culture and synthetic microbial communities. Plant-microbe interactions and bacteria of the nitrogen cycle. Analysis of plant secondary metabolites, including LC-MS/metabolomics. Omics data handling and basic bioinformatics. Personal qualifications The successful candidate will work across plant physiology, molecular biology and microbiology and collaborate closely with the two supervisors, departmental technical staff and international project partners. We are looking for someone who is: Proactive, independent and solution-oriented, with a high degree of initiative and a positive attitude. A strong team player who supports and guides colleagues and students. Highly organised and detail-oriented, with excellent record-keeping and documentation discipline. An effective communicator, comfortable in an international, English-speaking research environment. Adaptable and curious, willing to learn new methods (EVs, miRNA) and to work across disciplines. Who we are The Department of Food Science at Aarhus University develops research and education within food science, plant science and sustainable food systems. The position will be anchored in the Science Teams Plant, Food & Sustainability and Differentiated and Biofunctional Foods. Within the EU-funded EVOLVE project, the Department of Food Science is responsible for biological testing of extracellular vesicles as a non-GMO platform for steering plant performance and plant-microbe interactions. The project combines controlled-environment plant science, molecular biology, microbiology, extracellular vesicle biology and data modelling in close collaboration with international partners. What we offer The department offers: A well-developed research infrastructure, including controlled-environment plant cultivation facilities, laboratories and access to shared equipment. An exciting interdisciplinary environment with national, international and industrial collaborators. A research climate encouraging open and critical discussion within and across fields. Close collaboration with experienced supervisors and international EVOLVE partners. A workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance. Place of work and area of employment The place of work is the Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, Agro Food Park 48 Aarhus, Denmark, and the area of employment is Aarhus University with related departments. Contact information For further information, please contact: Ivan Paponov, Associate Professor, Department of Food Science, Aarhus University, PI / EVOLVE coordinator. ivpa@food.au.dk Deadline All applications must be received no later than 3 August 2026. Application procedure Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self. Formalities and salary range Technical Sciences refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information
Postdoctoral position in RNA evolution and nanotechnology
The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Aarhus University invites applications for a 1-year and a half postdoc position. This position offers an exciting opportunity to join a research project focused on developing nucleic acid-based artificial systems for precise biomolecular targeting. The position is available from 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible hereafter. Expected start date and duration of employment This is a year and a half position from 1 October 2026 or as soon possible thereafter, ending 31 March 2028. Job description Our group, the Valero Lab, is passionate about nucleic acids (DNA, RNA and XNA). We focus on a unique angle that combines cutting edge nanotechnology tools, nucleic acid chemistry and in vitro evolution techniques to develop novel nucleic acid systems that display a wide variety of functionalities. The focus of this postdoc position is to develop novel methods for the in vitro selection of chemically modified RNAs and to design interlocked nucleic acid nanostructures for biomolecular targeting. The successful candidate will primarily work on: Chemical modification of RNA (Bioconjugation, HPLC purification, RNA incorporation validation) Selection and characterization of RNA aptamers Design and synthesis of interlocked nucleic acid nanostructures. Functional validation of selected RNA molecules and application in biophysical, microscopy and cellular assays Preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals The candidate is expected to work close with research group members as well as with national and international collaborators Qualifications Applicants must hold a PhD degree in nanoscience/molecular biology/ biochemistry/ bioengineering or a related field. Essential qualifications: Documented experience with in vitro selection techniques Experience with nucleic acid synthesis Experience with synthetic RNA modifications Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, as well as great science communication skills Experience in supervising students Desirable qualifications: Experience with next generation sequencing and data analysis Experience with aptamers and assay development Curiosity-driven interest in RNA nanotechnology and design of nucleic acid nanostructures Applicants should be highly motivated, scientifically ambitious, and able to take initiative and responsibility within the research environment. Who we are iNANO, Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (www.inano.au.dk), was established in 2002 and at present is a major research and education center based at Aarhus University hosting 60 senior scientists, ~100 PostDocs and ~100 PhD students. The center combines expertise and faculty from Physics, Chemistry, Molecular biology and Medicine to carry out world-class interdisciplinary research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. The center gives access to a broad range of infrastructure, tools and expertise including clean-room facilities. With a 5-year undergraduate nanotechnology programme and nanoscience graduate programme (https://phd.nat.au.dk/programmes/nanoscience/) the center provides a full educational environment. In addition to the large base of basic research, the center has a large number of ongoing industrial projects and partnerships. In the Valero lab, we offer a dynamic, social and interdisciplinary scientific environment with a strong focus on nucleic acid chemistry, RNA technologies, biomedicine, and catalysis. Our team thrives in a collaborative atmosphere, working closely with leading scientists in biomedicine, virology, and synthetic biology at Aarhus University and within our international network. What we offer The successful applicant is offered: Access to a well-equipped research infrastructure and collaborative access to state-of-the-art core facilities. A scientific environment inviting open and critical thinking within and across interdisciplinary research fields, also fostering collaboration with academia and industrial partners. A working environment with teamwork, network activities among young scientists across different faculties at Aarhus University and social activities. A workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance. Place of work and area of employment The place of work is the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C. Contact information Further information about the position may be obtained from Assistant Prof. Julián Valero jvalero@inano.au.dk. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact for further details about the position. Deadline Applications must be received no later than 31 July 2026. Application procedure Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self. Formalities and salary range Natural Sciences refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Guidelines for applicants can be found here. Appointment shall be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities. Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Associations. Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. Research activities will be evaluated in relation to actual research time. Thus, we encourage applicants to specify periods of leave without research activities, in order to be able to subtract these periods from the span of the scientific career during the evaluation of scientific productivity. Aarhus University offers a broad variety of services for international researchers and accompanying families, including relocation service and career counselling to expat partners. Read more here. Please find more information about entering and working in Denmark here. Aarhus University also offers a Junior