Assistant Professor of Molecular Microbial Ecology
We are looking for a highly motivated assistant professor in Molecular Microbial Ecology at the Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen. The position is for 20 months, as part of the EMBARQ project (www.embarq.dk), a Center of Excellence funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The start date is 1 June 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
About EMBARQ
EMBARQ's mission is to provide a knowledge base and develop innovative tools to quantify the environmental impact of biologicals, particularly biopesticides, for agriculture and sustainability. The project introduces groundbreaking methodologies in risk assessment, including:
- Tracking biologicals in the environment.
- Calibrating risks against natural fluctuations.
- Integrating AI tools for risk evaluation.
- Applying a OneHealth perspective.
We aim to expand traditional risk assessment approaches by addressing factors like horizontal gene transfer and its potential to affect pathogenicity, as well as evaluating ecosystem-level impacts of biopesticide applications.
Who Are We Looking For?
We are seeking an ambitious and motivated researcher with the following qualifications:
- A PhD in Microbiology, with expertise in microbial interactions in the rhizosphere
- Strong experience in microbiological and molecular techniques (e.g., bacterial isolation and characterization, qPCR)
- Proficiency in flow cytometry and advanced bioimaging techniques, including confocal microscopy and quantitative imaging approaches such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)
- Advanced data analysis and statistical programming skills in R and/or Python
- Demonstrated hands-on experience with large-scale bio-inoculant production and greenhouse and field trials
- Experience with sequencing analysis, and genome-scale metabolic modeling
- Excellent English communication and writing skills, evidenced by a strong publication record
The ideal candidate thrives in collaborative research environments, works independently, and is motivated to take on leadership roles.
Our Research Environment
The Section of Microbiology at the University of Copenhagen is recognized as a world-leading research hub in microbial ecology and molecular microbiology. Our dynamic and collaborative group fosters cutting-edge scientific innovation while maintaining a strong emphasis on social integration and teamwork.
As a member, you will benefit from:
- An inspiring and highly supportive international research environment.
- Opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists across disciplines.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including in-house PacBio, Nanopore, and Illumina sequencing platforms, and HPC resources.
- A vibrant social atmosphere, promoting teamwork and idea-sharing within a diverse group of PhD students, postdocs, and faculty.
We take pride in combining scientific excellence with a collaborative spirit, ensuring that all team members thrive both professionally and personally.
Your job
The assistant professor’s duties will primarily include research, including obligations with regard to publication/scientific communication and research-based teaching with associated examination obligations within molecular microbial ecology. 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 at https://www1.bio.ku.dk/english/.
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 20 months. The position is open from 1 June 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
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.
How to apply
The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
Your application must include:
- Motivation letter explaining your interest in the position
- Curriculum vitae (max two pages)
- Complete publication list
- PDFs of your two most relevant publications.
- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
- 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
The deadline for applications is 3 March 2026, 23:59 GMT +1.
Questions
For further information please contact Søren J. Sørensen sjs@bio.ku.dk
Foreign applicants may find this link useful: https://ism.ku.dk/ (International Staff Mobility).
Why Copenhagen?
Copenhagen is a vibrant, safe city offering excellent work-life balance, subsidized high-quality childcare, and cultural attractions. Explore more:
The further process
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the hiring committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an unbiased assessor. Once the assessment work has been completed each applicant has the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that relates to the applicant him/herself.
You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/
The applicant will be assessed according to the Ministerial Order no. 242 of 13 March 2012 on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities.
Interviews are expected to be held in week 14-16, 2026.
The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background.
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.