Postdoctoral position of Theoretical Biocomplexity

The Niels Bohr Institute, Section for Biocomplexity and Biophysics, invites applicants for a two-year Postdoctoral position which is part of a research grant financed by the Novo-Nordisk Foundation on Biomolecular Condensate Formations.

The postdoc is suppose to work on fundamental problems at the interface of physics and biology: “How can cells operate in space and time to achieve a fine-tuned regulation of specific targets? Can dynamic variations in the concentration of transcription factors, combined with local condensation hotspots, advance the level of control in response to external stresses? Can the dynamics of insulin receptor condensates in cells improve our understanding of diabetes 2?” It is known that cells can use liquid-liquid phase separations to produce condensates at distinct locations in space to enhance specific processes. Also, transcription factors showing oscillatory dynamics can guide and control this formation and stimulate downstream targets maybe through genetic resonance allowing the cell a new degree of control and cellular decisions.  New results also indicate that the formation of transcriptional hotspots is dictated by the formation of biomolecular condensates and that condensates of receptors occur at the cell membrane. The postdoc might work on these topics but will also be free to perform researvch on a broad class of topics within theoretical biocomplexity.

The postdoc’s duties will primarily include research, including obligations with regard to publication/scientific communication and research-based teaching with associated examination obligations within the postdoc position. To a limited extent this may also include performance of other duties.

Assessment of applicants will primarily consider their level of documented, internationally competitive research. The ability to attract external funding will be considered together with outreach qualifications. Teaching qualifications are not mandatory but documented teaching qualifications and teaching experience will be considered.

Six overall criteria apply for assistant professor appointments at the University of Copenhagen. The six criteria (research, teaching, societal impact, organisational contribution, external funding and leadership) are considered a framework for the overall assessment of candidates. Furthermore, each candidate must be assessed according to the specific requirements stated in the job advertisement. Please read more at https://jobportal.ku.dk/videnskabelige-stillinger/kriterier-for-videnskabelige-stillinger/dokumenter-til-meritering/5a_Criteria_for_recognising_merit_-Assistant_professors.pdf .

Further information on the Department can be found on the https://nbi.ku.dk/. Inquiries about the position can be made to Institute Director Joachim Mathiesen, email: head_of_institute@nbi.ku.dk.

The position is open from 15 November 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.

Salary, pension and other conditions of employment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant organisation. Currently, the monthly salary starts at 38,700 DKK/approx. 5,100 EUR (April 2025 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18,07% to your pension fund

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
• If available, description and documentation of teaching and supervision experience and qualifications - please describe and document:
  • Experience with supervision of BSc and MSc students
  • Teaching experience
  • Formal pedagogical training
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 5 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 15 September 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/trial lectures will be held a few weeks after the deadline.

Please refer to the following no. in future communication in this case: 211-2263/25-2I