Research Scientists (Postdoc/Assistant Professor) with expertise in human physiology and metabolism

Job Description
The SIGNATURE project aims to define the human insulin resistance molecular network by identifying different baseline sub-phenotypes of insulin resistance in humans and assessing the impact of two highly controlled, short-term lifestyle interventions. Through these interventions, the project seeks to achieve deep phenotyping related to insulin resistance, advancing our understanding of metabolic health.

To support this effort, SIGNATURE is seeking two experienced Research Scientists. Each Research Scientist will be responsible for planning, organizing, and executing baseline assessments and leading one of two human intervention studies. Working closely with medical doctors, technical staff, and bioanalytical personnel, the Research Scientist will be responsible for ensuring the scientific and operational success of the interventions. The role includes active participation in the planning and daily execution of human experiments, maintaining scientific rigor, participant safety, and compliance with ethical standards. The Research Scientists will report to the Clinical Trial Manager, Research Coordinator, and Principal Investigators to support the overall progress of the project.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning and execution of human experiments, including participant recruitment and protocol development.
• Support, guide, and collaborate with fellow researchers, technicians, and students during experiments.
• Oversee data collection, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and confidentiality.
• Troubleshoot and address challenges arising during experiments.
• Ensure all experimental procedures comply with ethical and institutional guidelines.
• Work closely with the Research Coordinator and Clinical Trial Manager to align experimental timelines with project milestones.

Qualifications of the applicant

• MSc and Ph.D. (or equivalent qualification) in human physiology or related fields (e.g. biology, human biology).
• A proven practical record within human experimental metabolic research is a strength, including experience leading research teams and working with human participants.
• Strong record in laboratory methodology related to human experimentation is preferred.
• Publication record within metabolism/integrated physiology.
• Strong understanding of research ethics as well as experience working with Videnskabsetiske Komiteer (VEK) applications/protocols, is preferable.

The position will be based at the August Krogh Section for Human and Molecular Physiology, Department of Nutrition Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen. The section is located at the August Krogh Building, Universitetsparken 13, 2100 København Ø.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Jørgen Wojtaszewski, Professor Ylva Hellsten, and Professor Henriette Pilegaard, contributing to research conducted within the SIGNATURE project.

Application

The position is open for application at either the Postdoctoral or Assistant Professor level, depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

The application must be submitted in English and must include the following documents:

• Motivation letter outlining motivation for applying (maximum 2 pages)
• Curriculum vitae
• Complete list of publications
• MSc and PhD diploma (or documentation for equivalent qualification)
• Other relevant certifications (if applicable)
• Documentation of supervision experience (if applicable)

Application procedure
After the application deadline has expired, the Chair of the Appointment Committee selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Appointment Committee. All applicants are notified whether their application has been passed for assessment. Interviews will be held in June 2025.

Terms of employment
The position is open from 1 August 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter with a duration of 2 years.

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.

Currently, the monthly salary starts at 38,733 DKK/approx. 5,200 EUR (April 2025 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18.07% to your pension fund.

Foreign and Danish applicants may be eligible for tax reductions, if they hold a PhD degree and have not lived in Denmark the last 10 years.

Contact
Further information on the Department is linked at https://nexs.ku.dk/english/ and inquiries about the position can be made to the team’s Research Manager, Kate Aiko Wickham (kawi@nexs.ku.dk).