PhD Student position within the field of pre-mRNA splicing and disease

The RNA Precision Medicine Center, Section of Translational Biology, at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the University of Southern Denmark, invites applications for a PhD student position within the field of pre-mRNA splicing and disease. The position is to be filled from 1 April 2026.

The candidate will be part of a dynamic research group, which focus on generating a better understanding of all aspects of RNA biology in human disease and how to translate this into precision medicine.

The present project is focused on pre-mRNA splicing regulatory mechanisms and how inherited mutations can cause aberrant splicing and human disease. Identification and characterization of splicing regulatory motifs and regulatory RNA binding proteins important for metabolic- cancerous- and neurodegenerative diseases. In the project, patient cells, model- and reporter-minigenes, gene editing and animal models, as well as in vitro RNA binding techniques and bioinformatics will be used to explore changes in mRNA splicing and to identify and characterize the involved cis- and trans-factors.

The project has a special emphasis on correction of disease associated splicing and on identification and characterization of methods for up- and down-regulation of gene-expression employing splice switching oligonucleotides and RNA binding small molecule drugs. The project will generate basic knowledge on RNA-centered molecular mechanisms, the molecular pathology of aberrant splicing and it aims at translating this into new precision RNA medicine.

Applications are sought from candidates with a master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, medicine or a related field and documented experience in molecular and cellular biology.

Specifically, experimental expertise in RNA biology, including working with antisense oligonucleotides and RNA binding small molecule drugs for modulation of splicing, as well as hands-on experience with Next Generation Sequencing technologies and bioinformatics is preferable.

Applicants should have demonstrated scientific productivity, good inter-personal and communication skills, good written and spoken English skills and be able to conduct independent and creative research.

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers a strong, international and competitive research environment within the fields of RNA biology, molecular genetics and cell biology, protein chemistry and mass spectrometry, molecular microbiology and biophysics.

For further information about the position please contact Professor Brage Storstein Andresen, PhD, FRCPath, e-mail: bragea@bmb.sdu.dk, phone: +45 6550 2413.

Application, salary etc.  

Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period.

Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the

University’s website.

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement on salaried PhD scholars between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary (only available in Danish) and taxation.

The successful candidate will be enrolled at this university in accordance with faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order).

Further information about the PhD-study can be found at the University’s website.

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

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages).
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades.
• The names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) of at least two referees details for at least 2 referees who can vouch for your skills.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated.