Fixed-term
PhD scholarship in Microbial inoculants for agriculture
If you are excited about microbial ecology, plant microbiome interactions, and want to make a real impact on sustainable agriculture, this PhD project offers an exceptional opportunity. You will join the ambitious Lab2Field project, where we investigate why promising microbial bioinoculants often fail in the field, and how to fix it. This position is tailored for highly motivated candidates who thrive at the interface of microbiology, bioinformatics, soil ecology, plant biology and agroecology. We study the ecological and evolutionary principles that govern the establishment, persistence, and performance of multi‑strain microbial inoculants in real farming systems. You will contribute to fundamental knowledge that directly supports next generation plant biologicals to be more robust, climate‑resilient, and effective under diverse field conditions. The PhD project is part of the Lab2Field consortium led by Dr. Tanvi Taparia. Responsibilities and qualifications As PhD candidate, you will investigate the biological constraints that shape how microbial consortia interact with the plant host, the resident soil microbiome, land management factors and the abiotic environment. This PhD will work across diverse scales from laboratory, microcosm, greenhouse and field experiments. You will communicate closely with agricultural partners to align the experiment work with real‑world scenarios You will also contribute to supervision of BSc/MSc students and support teaching at the department Required qualifications: A two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree, in microbiology, microbial ecology, biotechnology, environmental engineering, agriculture or a related field. Hands‑on experience in molecular microbiology (DNA extraction, qPCR, microscopy, etc). Demonstrated experience studying interactions within complex microbial systems (synthetic communities or multi-strain consortia or environmental communities etc) Solid understanding of community assembly, priority effects, invasion resistance, niche complementarity and host selection in the plant or soil microbiome Bioinformatic skills in R or Python (amplicon workflow, metagenomics, or genomics). Strong knowledge of microbial biostimulants or biocontrol agents in plants Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a logistically complex project. Excellent written and spoken English, and the ability to communicate scientific areas clearly Approval and Enrolment The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU’s rules for the PhD education. Assessment The assessment of the applicants will be carried out by Assistant Professor Tanvi Taparia and Professor Lars Jelbak. We offer DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. Salary and appointment terms The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. This is a full-time position with a starting date of 1st August 2026. You can read more about career paths at DTU here. Further information For questions & further information you may contact Tanvi Taparia (tanta@dtu.dk) at DTU Bioengineering. You can read more about the Department at https://www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/. If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. Application procedure Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 29 May 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include: A letter motivating the application (cover letter) Curriculum vitae Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale A one-page research statement on the most important bottlenecks that prevent successful field application of microbial inoculants in agriculture Contact details of at least one reference that DTU may reach out to You may apply prior to obtaining your master’s degree but cannot begin before having received it. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position. Apply Now
PhD scholarship in Biogas to Protein Conversion using Microalgae-Bacteria Consortia
If you are establishing your career as a scientist and are motivated to work at the interface of microbiology, biotechnology, and sustainable process development, this PhD position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to innovation‑driven research with real‑world impact. At DTU Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, you will be part of a dynamic research environment addressing key challenges in sustainable bio‑based technologies. The PhD position is embedded in multi-partners collaborative project at BioCon Center at DTU department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, with focus on sustainable bioconversion platforms for the transformation of biogas-derived carbon into amino acid–enriched biomass, through the rational design and optimization of microalgae–bacteria consortia, metabolic pathway regulation, nutrient partitioning, and bioreactor performance. The project aims to bridge fundamental understanding of microbial processes with application‑oriented research, contributing to improved robustness, efficiency, and scalability of bio‑based conversion technologies relevant for the green transition. You will join an innovative, collaborative, international and multidisciplinary team. The group works on both fundamental understanding but also development and validation of new technologies based on the use of microorganisms as tools to valorize organic waste and wastewater into useful bioproducts, biofuels, and bioenergy. One of our important values is cooperation, and we believe that we can achieve world-class results together. You will be involved in strengthening the Bioconversions group competences within mixed cultures design, bioprocess modelling, upscaling, and valorization. You will work with nearby colleagues, and with both academic and industrial partners in Denmark as well as abroad. Responsibilities and qualifications Your primary tasks will be to: Design and carry out experiments on microbial consortia for SCP production from biogas Study bacteria–microalgae interactions and optimize fermentation performance and yield Be involved in the co-supervision of MSc and BSc students. Present research findings in scientific papers, conferences, project meetings, public domain, and other outreach activities You should have the following qualifications: MSc degree in areas such as Chemical Engineering/ Biotechnology/Microbiology/ Biochemical engineering/ Life sciences, or other relevant to this position Proven ability to work in microbial consortia/microalgae–bacteria consortia, gas fermentation, and knowledge about biogas systems or waste-to-resource technologies Experience in genome-scale metabolic modeling and flux balance analysis is an advantage Strong writing and communication skills Publish high impact articles Able to work both independently and in a team Collaborative international experience You must have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree. Approval and Enrolment The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU’s rules for the PhD education. We offer DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. Salary and appointment terms The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. Starting date is 1 October 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position. You can read more about career paths at DTU here. Further information Further information may be obtained from Dimitar Borisov Karakashev (dbka@kt.dtu.dk) and Sonia Mohamadnia (sonmoha@kt.dtu.dk), DTU Chemical and Biochemical Engineering. You can read more about DTU Chemical Engineering at https://www.kt.dtu.dk. If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. Application procedure Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 30 June 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include: A letter motivating the application (cover letter) Curriculum vitae Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale You may apply prior to obtaining your master’s degree but cannot begin before having received it. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position. Apply Now
PhD scholarship in analysis of marine eDNA
A PhD Scholarship to study biodiversity at offshore floating wind farms using eDNA to monitor spatial and temporal biodiversity variation, and to contribute to the development of eDNA into a robust cost-efficient tool for marine environmental impact assessment. Floating wind farms are offshore turbines mounted on floating structures rather than fixed foundations, allowing installation in deep waters (>60 meters) where stronger, more consistent winds exist. They unlock vast, deeper maritime areas, however their effect on marine biodiversity is relatively unknown. The project will apply advanced autonomous robotic instruments for in situ eDNA sampling and be aimed at revealing the potential biodiversity succession following the installation of a floating wind turbine in the North Sea. The scholarship is part of the “OWESOME” (Offshore Wind Environmental Survey Optimisation for Monitoring Impacts on Ecosystems) project, financed by and in collaboration with Total Energies from the wind energy sector. OWESOME tests an integrated biodiversity monitoring solution combining several technologies to create a comprehensive picture of biodiversity impacts, which besides eDNA also include passive and active acoustics, underwater video and artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis. The project will primarily be carried out at the Section for Marine Living Resources’ genetics group situated in Silkeborg, Denmark, but will potentially also include sampling trips to offshore windfarms and the possibility of an external study period abroad. The position is imbedded in the genetics/genomics group at DTU Aqua. The group applies cutting edge molecular methods with the aim to generate knowledge and develop DNA based tools for aquatic biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries management. The primary focus of the group is within population genetics/genomics and eDNA analyses. The group currently consists of around 20 people including researchers at different career stages, postdocs and PhD students as well as an experienced technical staff. Responsibilities and qualifications The ongoing climate and biodiversity crises call for new precise, fast, and cost-efficient methods for detection, monitoring and protection of biodiversity. For example, it has been decided that the massive build-up of offshore wind-power across the globe, should not be done at the expense of biodiversity. However, the monitoring of biodiversity using traditional methods is challenged by logistical, economical and time constraints. Accordingly, eDNA based methods could prove highly valuable, as eDNA analysis is a general tool with high species resolution, which can be applied without any specific taxonomical expertise by the investigator. However, eDNA based applications does also include significant challenges before they can be applied in routine offshore biodiversity monitoring. The overarching goal of the PhD projects is to develop eDNA from a “blue sky” basic science approach into a robust monitoring tool, which can be approved by and transferred to the industry and national authorities. Thus, the development of transparent and reproducible analytical pipelines from sampling to biodiversity inferences, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), is a requirement. The successful students will work on the full pipeline of eDNA analysis, from sampling design and practical sampling, over molecular genetic/genomic analysis (dPCR and metabarcoding), to bioinformatics and subsequent statistical analysis of biodiversity data. You will work within a team consisting of experienced researchers and postdocs, where you will have daily interaction, including supervision, with other team members. Thus, you will be responsible for your own part of the project, but at the same time contribute to the overall output of the project and interact with external project partners and stakeholders. You must have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree. A background in eDNA analysis including metabarcoding is preferred and experience with bioinformatic analyses of large genomic data sets is an asset. In addition, we are looking for candidates who have: – Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Biology, Computer Science or Engineering – Keen interest in research within marine and aquatic sciences, including “molecular ecology” – Good collaborative skills – Proficiency in written and spoken English Approval and Enrolment The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU’s rules for the PhD education. Assessment The assessment of the applicants will be made by Professor Einar Eg Nielsen and Senior Scientist Magnus Wulff Jacobsen. We offer DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. Salary and appointment terms The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. The PhD student will be based at DTU Aqua in Silkeborg, Denmark, and will be integrated within WINDNA project group across DTU Aqua and in the genetics/genomics group at DTU Aqua. Exchange visits to world leading collaborators within the field of eDNA analysis are anticipated. You can read more about career paths at DTU here. Further information Further information may be obtained from Professor Einar Eg Nielsen, tel.: +45 40210231, email: een@aqua.dtu.dk. General information may be obtained from Susan Zumbach Johannesen (szjo@aqua.dtu.dk). You can read more about DTU Aqua at www.aqua.dtu.dk and about the genetics group at https://www.aqua.dtu.dk/english/research/population_genetics If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. Application procedure Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 24 May 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the
PhD fellowship in sustainable fertiliser management and greenhouse gas mitigation
The Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainable Soil Management research group at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences (PLEN), University of Copenhagen, invites applications for a PhD fellowship focused on quantifying the nitrous oxide (N2O) mitigation potential of synthetic nitrification inhibitors (SNIs) applied with synthetic and organic fertilizers for various cropping rotations in Denmark. The PhD project is part of the multi-partner research project “SYNERGI – Synthetic nitrification inhibitors for N2O emissions reduction and improved GHG inventories?”, funded by the Danish Agency for Green Transition and Aquatic Environment. The expected start date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The project Nitrous oxide is an important greenhouse gas. About 70% of the N2O emissions comes from agricultural fields as a consequence of nitrogen fertilization. The N2O is produced during nitrification and denitrification following the application of mineral and organic fertilizers. Management strategies should aim to limit microbial N transformations before plant uptake. SNIs have been proposed as an effective measure to reduce N2O emissions, with studies showing average reductions of 40–50%, along with a comparable decrease in nitrate (NO3⁻) leaching. The overall objective of this project is to quantify N2O emissions and NO3⁻ leaching from synthetic and organic fertilizers applied to major crops, such as winter wheat and spring barley, and to assess the effectiveness of SNIs in mitigating these nitrogen losses. As part of this PhD, activities will include: Conducting controlled laboratory incubation experiments to investigate the effects of SNIs on N2O emissions under different soil types and moisture regimes on nitrifier and denitrifier activities and the interaction of SNIs with biochar to explore potential synergies for N2O mitigation. Performing field experiments to assess the impacts of SNIs on N2O emissions and NO3⁻ leaching from synthetic and organic fertilizers applied to spring- and winter-sown crops. Who are we looking for? We are looking a candidate with professional as well as personal skills and qualifications as stated below: Professional qualifications relevant to the PhD project, including a MSc degree in environmental science, soil science, biology, physical geography, agronomy or a related discipline. Solid knowledge about soil biogeochemistry and plant biology in the context of agricultural systems. Interest and flair for conducting experimental, environmental and agricultural research in both the laboratory and the field. Interest in, or experience with, measuring GHG fluxes using closed chambers, gas chromatography and laser-based analysers. Good computer skills, experience with advanced data management and analysis, including statistical tools and methods. Relevant work experience or other professional activities will be an advantage. Excellent English language skills (written as well as oral) Good communicative and interpersonal skills. Our group and research- and what do we offer? The positions will be affiliated with the Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainable Soil Management research group at the Deparment of Plant and Environmental Sciences at University of Copenhagen (https://plen.ku.dk/english/research/plant_soil/climate-change-mitigation-and-sustainable-soil-management/). The group focuses on soil fertility issues and environmental impacts related to sustainable agriculture with a special focus on nutrient cycling and climate change. Our research aims at a mechanistic understanding of soil nutrient and organic matter dynamics at both the level of micro-scale biogeophysical processes and at eco-system scales, in the pursuit of increased nutrient use efficiency, improved crop productivity and reduced environmental impacts from agriculture. We are located in Copenhagen, with main campus in Frederiksberg and field trial facilities at our experimental farm in Taastrup, 20 km from the main campus. Our research facilities include modern laboratories, growth chambers, greenhouses and experimental fields. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment. The PhD student will be required to go on a secondment for some time to another institution. Supervision: Principal supervisor is Professor Sander Bruun, E-mail: sab@plen.ku.dk, Direct Phone: 35333481. The daily project supervisors (Co-supervisors) will be Researcher Azeem Tariq and Assistant Professor Andreas Brændholt. The PhD programme Qualifications needed for the regular programme To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database. Terms of employment in the regular programme Employment as PhD fellow is full time and for maximum 3 years. Employment is conditional upon your successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. This requires submission and acceptance of an application for the specific project formulated by the applicant. The terms of employment and salary are in accordance to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State (AC). The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure. Responsibilities and tasks Carry through an independent research project under supervision Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities Write scientific papers aimed at high-impact journals Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project We are looking for the following qualifications: Professional qualifications relevant to the PhD project Relevant publications Relevant work experience Other relevant professional activities Curious mind-set with a strong interest in the development of sustainable crop systems that are resource-use efficient and promote important ecosystem services. Proficiency in spoken and written English, including skills in academic writing are essential. Application and Assessment Procedure Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below. Please include: Cover letter / motivated letter of application (max. one page) A short reflection on your research interests, experiences, and how the project objectives can be approached (max. one page) Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position Original diplomas for Bachelor of Science and Master of Science and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If
Position of Postdoctoral in Plant-microbiome interactions
Postdoc in Plant-microbiome interactions This postdoc is part of the Lab2Field consortium led by Dr. Tanvi Taparia, which is hosted at the Section for Microbial & Chemical Ecology, DTU Bioengineering. Responsibilities and qualifications Your overall focus will be to advance our understanding of the ecological principles that govern the success of microbial bioinoculant consortia. Under the Lab2Field project, you will create a knowledge framework for the successful field application of microbial biostimulants and biopesticides. You will work closely with colleagues at DTU Bioengineering, farmers, industry partners, and regulatory bodies. You will contribute to generating knowledge that links insights from laboratory experiments with Synthetic Communities to field-level agronomic performance of multi-strain bioinoculants. Your primary tasks will be to: Design and refine complex synthetic communities (SynComs) to simulate diverse soil microbial environments Investigate bioinoculant colonization under varying soil, host & microbial factors Track bioinoculant populations & community dynamics of the resident microbiome Use multi-variate analysis to integrate microbiome & plant data to find ecological drivers of bioinoculant success Contribute to supervision of PhD/MSc/BSc students and support project activities Communicate across sectors with farmers, regulatory bodies, stakeholders & industry You must bring hands-on experience in at least 3 of these 6 areas: Designing and working with complex synthetic communities (100+ bacterial strains) Microbiome data analyses in R or Python (amplicon, genomics, metagenomics) Studying microbial colonization in plant microcosms or greenhouse trials Investigating mode-of-action for biostimulants or biofungicide candidates Strong knowledge of the regulatory landscape for microbial bioinoculants Experience with setting up, coordinating and sampling from large-scale field trials As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree in microbiology, microbial ecology, biotechnology, environmental engineering or agriculture. Assessment The assessment of the applicants will be carried out by Assistant Professor Tanvi Taparia and Professor Lars Jelbak. We offer DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. Salary and terms of employment The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. This is a full-time position with a starting date of 1st August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. You can read more about career paths at DTU here. Further information For questions & further information you may contact Tanvi Taparia (tanta@dtu.dk) at DTU Bioengineering. You can read more about the Department at https://www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/. If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Application procedure Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 29 May 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply now”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include: Application (cover letter) describing your motivation for applying and how your background supports your ability to work on this project CV Academic Diplomas (MSc, PhD – in English) List of publications One page write-up on your scientific approach to investigate the biological constraints faced by microbial inoculants in field settings Contact details of at least one reference that DTU may reach out to Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position. Apply Now