Staff Scientist (AC-TAP) in Stem cell biology and kidney development at reNEW Copenhagen

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
University of Copenhagen

We are looking for a highly motivated and independent staff scientist to support our efforts in the area of pluripotent stem cell differentiation to human kidney. The position is to commence 1 October 2025

Our research

In the group of Professor Melissa Little, we use our underlying knowledge of normal kidney development to direct the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells to kidney organoids. These stem cell-derived tissues are used to better understand human development, model genetics forms of kidney disease and evaluate options for the treatment of end stage renal disease.

Your job

The position advertised is for a research scientist to support projects aimed at recreating accurate models of the developing human kidney. The role is part of a team in which there is a need for coordinated differentiation of distinct cell types for combination. The role will include the stem cell maintenance, differentiation and analysis of the resulting tissues using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, FACS and transcriptional profiling. You will be expected to contribute to and support the ongoing research projects in the group on an ad hoc basis when needed; disseminate your expertise to new lab members and support the lab management.

Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic staff scientist with the following competencies and experience:

Essential experience and skills

• A Masters in Biology / Life sciences
• Documented experience in culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells
• Advanced experience in confocal microscopy
• Experience in cell sorting and fluorescence activated cell sorting
• Skills in fundamental molecular biology, including RNA extraction and PCR.
• A proven ability to envision, plan and execute a research project 
• Some experience in mouse dissection
• Good English skills, written and spoken

Desirable experience and skills

• Experience and knowledge of kidney development
• Evidence of a capacity to present research in a public forum
• Service-minded attitude with strong teamwork experience
• Consistent record keeping  and strong research ethics

Place of employment

The place of employment is within the Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Stem Cell Medicine, University of Copenhagen. This is an international center with research nodes in three countries, providing a unique opportunity for training and capacity building in the area of stem cell biology and translational medicine. Our research facilities include modern laboratories with specialist facilities in genomics, microscopy and FACS.

Terms of employment

The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week.

The position is a fixed-term position limited to a period of 2 years. The starting date is 1 October 2025.

Employment will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). The monthly salary will be based on the number of years of work experience (seniority) with the possibility to negotiate a salary supplement based on prior experiences and qualifications. The employer will pay an additional 18,07 % to your pension fund.

Questions

For further information regarding the position, please contact Melissa.Little@sund.ku.dk

Application

Your application should be in English and include:

• Letter of application addressing the requirements (max. one page).
• Curriculum Vitae
• A certified/signed copy of certificate(s) of education

Please submit your application by clicking on “Apply Now” below. Only online applications will be accepted.

Application deadline: 20 July 2025, 23.59 CET

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

Interviews are expected to be held in the weeks after the deadline.

The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background.