PhD Position in Organic Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen invites applicants for a PhD position in Organic Chemistry. The project is part of the research project “BEYOND ‒ Visible-light Photocatalysis in Prebiotic Chemistry”, which is financed by an ERC Starting Grant. The research will take part in the group led by Michael Martin Nielsen.

Project description

This ERC-funded project explores how visible light could have driven key chemical transformations relevant to the origins of life. While ultraviolet light has long been the focus of prebiotic photochemistry, this project shifts attention to visible light, as a milder and more abundant energy source on early Earth, and investigates its ability to drive catalytic reaction cycles in aqueous solution. The central objective is to discover and characterize photoredox catalytic systems, focusing on redox reactions and simple oligomerizations. By leveraging the properties of small molecule photocatalysts, the research will develop models of prebiotic chemistry that are both chemically and geochemically plausible.

The PhD student will join a vibrant and growing team at the University of Copenhagen and will be involved in close collaboration with postdocs and MSc/BSc students pursuing interconnected projects, providing an opportunity for the student to develop research leadership skills.

The position is for a 3-year PhD program and requires a MSc degree in chemistry or a signed letter from a current PI which states that the MSc will be obtained in time before the start date of the PhD program (August 1, 2026).

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for an ambitious and independent PhD student with prior experience with aqueous organic chemistry. Ideally, the candidate is someone who envisions themselves as a future research leader and wants to take early ownership of a project. We will prioritize candidates with a background in organic reaction development and mechanistic studies.

Equally important, the applicant must be enthusiastic about mentoring and guiding MSc/BSc students working on parallel topics in photocatalysis and prebiotic reaction networks. You will be encouraged to shape your own research direction within the scope of the ERC project, positioning yourself to develop a long-term independent line of research.

Applicants must hold a MSc degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent, and be highly confident in written and spoken English. As criteria for the assessment of the applicant’s qualifications, emphasis will also be laid on relevant work experience, scientific and scholarly excellence and leadership. The PhD position will also include periods of part-time teaching, emphasizing the need for communication and collaboration skills.

Our group

We are a young research group focused on developing organic chemical transformations in water. Our current efforts span the fields of origins-of-life chemistry and the design of artificial enzymes using molecular imprinting technology. Our scientific approach is centered around high-risk, high-reward research with the potential for long-term impact. We believe the best science emerges from creativity, open-minded exploration, and a willingness to challenge established ideas.

We strive to foster a research environment where inspiration is drawn from the people around us. Not through competition, but through collaboration and mutual support. In our group, lab members are seen as colleagues and co-creators, not as rivals. We believe that good ideas can come from anywhere, and that helping others elevate their science ultimately elevates our own. We recognize that people work differently and that great research doesn't follow a single schedule or style and support flexible working routines and encourage each member to find a balance that sustains their personal well-being, creativity, and productivity. Whether you work best early in the morning, late at night, or somewhere in between, our environment is built to accommodate and respect individual working methods.

Our lab currently consists of 8 members, and we are entering a phase of significant growth supported by an ERC Starting Grant beginning in 2026. We welcome scientists from all backgrounds, career stages, and identities. Our lab is based in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen, centrally located in the vibrant neighborhoods of Nørrebro and Østerbro.

Principal investigator is Michael Martin Nielsen, Department of Chemistry, mmn@chem.ku.dk, Direct Phone: +45 53683130.

Inquiries about the position can be made to the PI, Michael Martin Nielsen. The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

The position is available from 01.08.2026.

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 Danish Ministry of Taxation 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 (max. 2 pages)
• Diplomas (BSc and MSc degree)
• Exam grades from BSc and MSc-level.
• Research Statement – description of current and on-going research (max. 1 page)
• Publication list (please include manuscripts in preparation if necessary)

*The deadline for applications is 11 April, 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.

Interviews will be held in April/May 2026.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.