Postdoc of Biotechnology

We are inviting applications for a Post-doctoral position of 24 months in the research group of Biochemical Engineering at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at the University of Copenhagen (Biochemical Engineering – Institut for Plante- og Miljøvidenskab - Københavns Universitet (ku.dk)). The research group, headed by Prof. Sotirios Kampranis (Sotirios Kampranis - Plant Biochemistry Employees (ku.dk)), explores and engineers nature’s sensing capabilities, using synthetic biology and biochemical engineering to develop innovative biosensors, devices and technologies that address challenges in human health, environmental monitoring and society.

The focus of the present project (ULYSSES) is to transform early cancer detection by developing a portable and non-invasive biosensor capable of identifying breast and prostate cancer signatures directly from urine samples. The project takes inspiration from the highly sensitive olfactory system of C. elegans and brings together synthetic biology, engineered yeast biosensors, VOC profiling and artificial intelligence. The research focuses on understanding cancer-specific VOC signatures and translating biological olfactory recognition into an easy-to-use diagnostic platform with potential applications in early cancer screening and personalized medicine.

Skills and experience required or highly desired for the position:

• PhD or postdoctoral experience in yeast Synthetic Biology, Genetic Engineering, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• Theoretical and hands-on expertise in molecular biology and biochemistry
• Ability to work independently and see projects through to completion
• Construct designed strains using standard molecular cloning techniques including Gibson, USER or Golden Gate assembly and targeted strain recombineering and gene integration methods
• Culture and evaluate constructed yeast strains using small-scale (plate and flask-scale) cultivations and assays.
• Thoroughly document project results and progress, and facilitate clear communication and technology transfer with industrial partners
• Possibility of relocation to an academic partner for collaboration is a plus.

Formal requirements:

• Applicants should be fluent in both spoken and written English.
• Applicants should have a PhD degree in relevant topics, such as Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Metabolic Engineering or Biochemistry.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within biotechnology and synthetic biology as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.

Further information on the Department is linked at [Institut for Plante- og Miljøvidenskab – Institut for Plante- og Miljøvidenskab - Københavns Universitet]. Inquiries about the position can be made to [prof. Sotirios Kampranis, soka@plen.ku.dk].

The position is open from  1 February 2027 or 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.

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 25 October 2026, 23:59 GMT +2.

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/.