Postdoctoral position in spatial genomics and quantitative microenvironmental liver physiology
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 physiology. Our groups, together with close collaborators aims to understand how biophysical microenvironments such as pH and oxygen (O₂) gradients shape cellular phenotypes and gene regulation in vivo. 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 includes both biological discovery and technological innovation, for example:
- True Length of Diverse capped RNA (TLDR-seq): full-length sequencing of capped RNAs (Nucleic Acids Res 2025, doi:10.1093/nar/gkaf240)
- Spatially resolved analysis of microenvironmental gradients in cancer (Science Advances 2024, doi:10.1126/sciadv.adn3448)
- Maternal immune activation and fetal metabolic adaptation (Nat Commun 2024, doi:10.1038/s41467-024-48492-x)
- Microfluidic models of pH and oxygen gradients in tumors (bioRxiv 2025, doi:10.1101/2025.07.05.663284)
Project focus
This project will develop methods to measure local pH and O₂ levels within liver tissue, combining these data with spatially resolved single-cell gene expression of the same cells. The overarching goal is to generate quantitative models of how microenvironmental gradients regulate cellular gene expression in vivo, advancing towards a molecular physiology models of organs. You will join a vibrant group of interdisciplinary scientists in eg bioinformatics, cell biology, gene editing and material science.
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
- A strong publication record, including one or more first-author papers in reputable journals in genomics, bioinformatics, or physiology
- 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/.
Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.