About the opportunity
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition (BRIGHT), in collaboration with the Centre for Absolute Sustainability and DTU Sustain, offers a three-year PhD position in dynamic food system modelling. The overarching goal is to develop dynamic modelling approaches for sustainability assessments of microbial foods and broader food system transformations. The research builds on the Absolute Environmental Sustainability Assessment (AESA) framework, integrating nutritional functional units, temporal dynamics, regional differences, and prospective life cycle assessment (pLCA). The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary environment to help shape sustainable food production solutions.
Salary and benefits
- Fully funded three-year PhD employment contract on a full-time basis.
- Salary and appointment terms based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.
- Opportunity to work in a leading international research environment at a top technical university.
- Access to monthly relocation seminars and support for international researchers moving to Denmark.
Who can apply?
- A two-year Master's degree (120 ECTS points) in environmental engineering, integrated food studies, sustainability assessments, or closely related disciplines, or an equivalent academic level.
- Fluency in spoken and written English.
- Literacy in common IT systems.
- Experience in Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and/or Absolute Environmental Sustainability Assessment (AESA) is an advantage, as are mathematical modelling skills.
Required documents
- Cover letter motivating the application
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma in English, including official grading scale descriptions
- One letter of reference including referee email and phone number
When to apply
- Application deadline is 11 November 2026 at 23:59 Danish time.
- Start date is 1 February 2027 or according to mutual agreement.
How to apply
- Open the online application link via the official portal.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Combine all required materials into a single PDF file in English and submit it before the deadline.
Additional information
- Applicants may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree but cannot begin before receiving it.
- Open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates due to research involving critical technology and export control rules.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Strong background in environmental engineering, life cycle assessment (LCA), or sustainability metrics.
- Keen interest in applying advanced mathematical modelling to microbial foods and agricultural transformations.
- Desire to pursue a structured three-year doctoral degree within a recognized European technical research institution.
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires relocating to Denmark for a three-year fixed-term commitment.
- Must meet DTU's formal PhD enrolment standards and academic approval requirements.
- All application materials must be consolidated into a single English PDF file prior to submission.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This three-year doctoral position is well-suited for candidates aiming to build a rigorous academic or specialized professional career in sustainability science, environmental modelling, and food system transitions.
Our take
Applicants with a strong foundation in LCA, sustainability assessments, and a passion for food system transformations should seriously consider applying before the November deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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