Postdoctoral position integrative spatial analysis of microenvironmental drivers of pancreatic cancers

The Sandelin and Falsig Pedersen groups are seeking a talented and motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic, interdisciplinary team working at the interface of computational biology, genomics, and molecular cancer physiology. Our laboratories aims to understand how biophysical microenvironments such as pH and oxygen (O₂) gradients shape cellular phenotypes and gene regulation in vivo, with a focus on pancreatic cancer. The position is for 2 years with possibility for extension and will be taking place physically in the Sandelin and Falsig Pedersen laboratories, which are closely located at University of Copenhagen. 

Our recent work in this area includes:

• Spatially resolved analysis of microenvironmental gradients in cancer (Science Advances 2024, doi:10.1126/sciadv.adn3448)
• Microfluidic models of pH and oxygen gradients in tumors (bioRxiv 2025, doi:10.1101/2025.07.05.663284)
• Tumor microenvironment acidosis favors pancreatic cancer stem cell properties and in vivo metastasis (iScience 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2025)
• Adaptation to an acid microenvironment promotes pancreatic cancer organoid growth and drug resistance ( Cell Reports 2024. doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114409)

Project focus

The biophysical microenvironment of tumors is an underexplored determinant of cancer progression and metastasis. Regions of low pH and/or low oxygen are common in solid tumors and may drive adaptive programs that enhance malignancy.

We have previously shown that in vitro adaptation to acidic pH confers cancer hallmarks (Cell Reports 2024), and that these traits persist in vivo, correlating with worse clinical outcomes (iScience 2025).

In this project, we will investigate whether similar adaptations occur in vivo and how they relate to oxygen levels and tumor aggressiveness. Using imaging-based measurements of pH and O₂ in mouse tumor models, we will integrate these readouts with spatially resolved single-cell transcriptomics to identify niche-specific gene programs. Combined with functional validation, this integrative approach will reveal how microenvironmental gradients shape gene expression and drive tumor progression.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in biology, bioinformatics, genomics, or molecular physiology. We particularly welcome candidates with:

• Expertise in experimental genomics, cell biology and advanced live imaging techniques, and/or computational analysis of spatial omics data — experience in two or more of these areas is highly advantageous
• Knowledge of cancer biology is a large advantage
• A strong publication record, including one or more first-author papers in reputable journals in genomics, bioinformatics, or cancer biology
• Excellent written and spoken English, with demonstrated ability in scientific writing and presentations
• A genuine interest in interdisciplinary, collaborative research

Responsibilities

The postdoctoral fellow will conduct independent and collaborative research within the project’s scope and may also contribute to teaching and supervision within the department.

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 prof Albin Sandelin, albin@bio.ku.dk

The position is open from April 1 2026 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 FOR POSITION below. 

Please include

-        Curriculum vitae

-        Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)

-        Letter of interest, outlining your motivation for applying and your suitability for the position

-        Complete publication list

The deadline for applications is 14 January 2026, 23:59 GMT

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/.