PhD fellowship in cancer stem cells’ immune evasion
The Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a PhD fellowship in the field of cancer stem cells’ immune evasion. The project is financed by the Købmand Niels Erik Munk Pedersen Foundation.
The preferred start date is (expected to be) 1 June 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The project
The overarching aim of the project is to unravel novel mechanisms by which cancer stem cells in skin carcinoma evade immune surveillance. The project will combine cell and molecular biology approaches, 2D and 3D cultures, and a proof-of-concept xenograft model to uncover mechanisms regulating immune escape and evaluate potential therapeutic targets. As part of this, activities will include advanced cell culture approaches, genetic manipulation, protein interaction analyses, immunofluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, cancer-immune cell co-culture systems, and xenograft models.
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking a highly motivated, curious, and ambitious PhD candidate passionate about understanding cancer stem cell biology and immune regulation at the molecular and cellular levels. The candidate must have strong interpersonal and communication skills, and a very good level of spoken and written English. We encourage applications from candidates with the following competencies:
- Strong knowledge and interest in the cancer stem cell biology niche.
- Experimental experience in molecular and cellular biology approaches and cell culture
- Ability to translate theoretical scientific questions into practical experiments and measurements
- Ability to analyse, organize, and interpret complex data
- Show initiative, creativity, and critical thinking in experimental design and data interpretation
- Are committed to high scientific standards and reproducible research
- Ability to work independently and take initiative, good hands-on problem-solving skills, and the capacity to acquire new skills.
- Ability to actively contribute to a collaborative and supportive research team, and willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaborations, are essential.
Research shows that women and other underrepresented groups often hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you are excited about this position and believe you can contribute, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if your experience does not perfectly match every point. We value curiosity, motivation, and the potential and willingness to learn.
Our group and research - and what do we offer?
The project will be carried out in the Perez-Moreno laboratory at the Department of Biology. https://researchprofiles.ku.dk/en/persons/mirna-perez-moreno/ The group studies how stem cells and their microenvironment regulate tissue regeneration and cancer, with a strong focus on cell adhesion, immune interactions, and stem cell niches.
The group combines molecular biology, advanced imaging, mouse genetics, and translational approaches, and collaborates with international partners.
The group is a part of the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. We are located in Copenhagen.
The Department of Biology provides state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including advanced microscopy facilities, core sequencing and bioinformatics services, and animal research facilities.
We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment with strong mentoring and training opportunities.
The Principal supervisor is Associate Professor Mirna Perez-Moreno, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen. Email: mirna.pmoreno@bio.ku.dk. Phone: DIR +45 35 33 35 40
The PhD programme
Qualifications needed for the regular programme
To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project, e.g., biochemistry, biomedicine, or a closely related discipline. For information on the eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and the Assessment database.
Terms of employment in the regular programme
Employment as a PhD fellow is full-time and for a maximum of 3 years.
Employment is conditional upon your successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. This requires submission and acceptance of an application for the specific project formulated by the applicant.
Terms of appointment and payment are in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure.
Responsibilities and tasks in the PhD programme
- Carry through an independent research project under supervision
- Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE
- Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad
- Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities
- Write scientific papers aimed at high-impact journals
- Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project
We are looking for the following qualifications:
- Strong academic record at the Master’s level
- Previous research experience with the following approaches is highly desirable:
- mammalian 2D and 3D cell culture and genetic manipulation
- Protein and RNA analysis (Western blotting, qPCR, immunoprecipitation)
- Immunofluorescence microscopy and image analysis
- Flow cytometry and functional cell-based assays
- Experience with animal models is an advantage. FELASA certification is considered a plus, but can be obtained during the PhD studies
- Publications are an advantage
- Demonstrated ability to work independently on experimental projects is an advantage
- Proficiency in spoken and written English, including academic writing, is essential. Your command of the English language is expected to be at the C1 level.
Application and Assessment Procedure
Your application, including all attachments, must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
Please include:
- Cover Letter/Motivated letter of application (max. one page)
- A short reflection on your research interests, experience, and how the project aligns with your academic/professional interests (max. one page)
- Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills, and other skills relevant to the position
- Original diplomas for Bachelor of Science or Master of Science and a transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in a language other than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted.
- Publication list (if any)
- Reference letters (if any)
Application deadline:
The deadline for applications is 26 February 2026, 23:59 GMT +1
We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline and not to consider applications that do not meet the abovementioned requirements.
The further process
After the deadline, a number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You will be notified whether you will be passed for assessment.
The assessor will assess the qualifications and experience of the shortlisted applicants with respect to the above-mentioned research area, techniques, skills, and other requirements. The assessor will conclude whether each applicant is qualified and, if so, for which of the two models. The assessed applicants will have the opportunity to comment on their assessment. You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.
Interviews with selected candidates are expected to be held in week 15-17.
Questions
For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact Associate Professor Mirna Perez-Moreno. Email: mirna.pmoreno@bio.ku.dk. This email address is provided exclusively for questions about the position. Applications, CVs, or any other unsolicited materials will not be reviewed and will be permanently deleted without being opened, in compliance with applicable data protection regulations. All applications must be submitted through the official application portal as specified in the job advertisement.
General information about PhD study at the Faculty of SCIENCE is available at the PhD School’s website: https://www.science.ku.dk/phd/.
The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the surrounding community and invites all, regardless of personal background, to apply for the position.
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.