Postdoctoral Researcher in Physical Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen is seeking an exceptional Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead research in Physical Chemistry focusing on atmosphere-relevant gas-phase reaction kinetics in the Kjaergaard group. The research projects evolve around the gas-phase chemistry associated with geochemical cycles. We focus on predicting new mechanisms and the existence of novel compounds in planetary atmospheres. The Fellow will work with theoretical methods to investigate fundamental reactions associated with the oxidation of emitted volatile organic compounds. We employ state-of-the-art computational methodologies, including first-principle methods like couple-cluster or multi-reference configuration interaction approach, and kinetic approaches such as multi-conformer and variational transition state theory. Collaboration with and involvement in experimental groups looking at related reactions and/or modeling groups implementing the discovered reactions into global models are likely.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within Physical Chemistry as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties like co-supervision of PhD, MSc and BSc students in the group.

We are seeking a candidate with the following qualifications:

• A Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
• Expertise in Theoretical, Physical and Atmospheric Chemistry.
• Proficiency in quantum computing packages, like Molpro, Orca, Gaussian
• Familiarity with chemical kinetics and dynamics.
• Familiarity with Bash/Shell scripting
• Knowledge of experimental approaches for atmospheric chamber and flow-tube setups or geochemical modeling is advantageous.

The Kjaergaard group (https://chem.ku.dk/research_sections/physchem/kjaergaardgroup/) is a part of the Department of Chemistry at faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. We are located in Copenhagen.

We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include modern laboratories and high performance computational facilities.

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 Professor Henrik G. Kjaergaard, Department of Chemistry, hgk@chem.ku.dk.

The position is open from October 1, 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter, for a duration of 3 years.

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 NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans/ideas
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

Application deadline:

The deadline for applications is 04.07 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/.