Postdoc in Algae biochemistry

This Post Doc position at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences (PLEN), University of Copenhagen, is a 2-year research fellowship within the Algae Biochemistry group led by Assoc. Professor Johan Andersen-Ranberg. The fellow’s main duties will include conducting experimental molecular biology research on eukaryotic microalgae, performing genome engineering in algae, and carrying out metabolomic analyses. In addition, the Post Doc will also supervise students and contribute to teaching. The position is aimed at candidates with a strong background in algae, plant sciences, or microbiology, and an invested interest in algae biochemistry.

The Algae Biochemistry group

(https://plen.ku.dk/english/research/plant_biochemistry/algae-biochemistry/)

Currently, the Algae Biochemistry Group (ABG) consist of 4 Post docs. 2 PhD students, and 1 research assistant. Core focus of the group includes both basic science and applied science with societal impact. In 2022 the biotech company TriptoBIO (http://triptobio.com/, >10 FTE), spun-out of ABG. Strong collaboration and day-to-day interaction between ABG and TriptoBIO provide opportunities for the Post Doc fellow to engage in translational science and be exposed to the biotech start-up community in the greater Copenhagen area. In parallel as part of PLEN, the Post Doc fellow will be interacting leading scientist within the fields of plant science and synthetic biology. Further information on the Department is linked at (https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/). Inquiries about the position can be made to Assoc. Prof. Johan Andersen-Ranberg, email: joar@plen.ku.dk.

The requirements
Applicants should, prior to the start date, hold a PhD degree in synthetic biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, microbial biology, plant biology, algae biology or similar subjects, and should be fluent in both spoken and written English. If you are still a PhD student at the time of the application deadline, please provide a confirmation letter from your supervisor that you are expected to finish in time before the start date of the Post. Doc. position. Previous publications and relevant work experience will be included in the assessment of your qualifications.

Key scientific qualification areas 

• Molecular biology
• Yeast metabolic engineering
• Analytical chemistry / pigment analysis
• Heterologous expression of algae proteins
• Protein biochemistry
• Strong publication record
• Proficient communication skills and ability to work in teams
• Excellent English skills written and spoken

Key personal skills 

• Broad curiosity in biological questions and open-mindedness to interdisciplinary research
• Enthusiasm and good interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate with others including supervision and mentoring of students
• Ability to work independently and manage your research project
• Ability to critically review research results generated as part of the project
• Engagement in Departmental and Laboratory activities including lab duties, teaching and dissemination of your research
• Ensuring GLP and general safety operations

The position is open from 18th of August 2025 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 (1 page, incl. fig.)
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 1st of June, 2025 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/.

Interviews will be held in June 2025