About the opportunity
The Ravnskjaer lab at the Functional Genomics & Metabolism Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, is seeking a highly motivated PhD fellow. The research focuses on the molecular basis for cardiometabolic health, combining human biopsy studies with preclinical models, single-cell transcriptomics, and bioimaging. The successful candidate will join an international, well-resourced environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities for sequencing, metabolomics, and imaging. The position is available as a three-year appointment for those holding an MSc, or a four-year program for those currently completing their Master’s degree (4+4 program).
Salary and benefits
- Three-year PhD position (or four-year for Master's students)
- Competitive salary and social benefits including health coverage and parental leave
- Enrollment in the PhD school of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a flexible course program
- Training in scientific and transferable skills such as research management and communication
- Mentoring and career development within a national and international network
- Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and equipment
- Support for international candidates through the International Staff Office
Who can apply?
- Master's degree in Life Science, preferably Molecular Biology, Biomedicine, or Computational Systems Biology
- Candidates currently completing their Master's degree may apply for the 4+4 PhD program
- Strong collaborative and communication skills
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Hands-on experience with adipose tissue or microvascular biology, mouse models, and FELASA B certification is an advantage
Required documents
- Letter of interest, motivation, and qualifications (max. two pages)
- Detailed CV with personal contact information
- Copies of Bachelor and Master's degree diplomas and transcripts
- Contact details for at least two referees
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-10-27 at 23:59 local Danish time
How to apply
- Prepare application documents in PDF format
- Submit as three separate files: motivation letter, CV, and remaining documents
- Apply electronically via the official 'Apply now' link on the job portal
Additional information
- The position is available from December 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter
- Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process
- Incomplete applications or those received after the deadline will not be considered
- The holder of the scholarship is not allowed to have other paid employment during the three-year period
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…
- Candidates with a background in molecular biology or biomedicine who have specific hands-on experience with mouse models and adipose tissue research.
- Early-career researchers looking for a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment with access to advanced bioimaging and transcriptomics tools.
- Applicants interested in cardiometabolic health who value the opportunity for international research exchanges and structured career development.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position requires a high level of commitment, as the PhD fellow is generally not permitted to hold other paid employment during the three-year term.
- Applicants should be prepared for a competitive selection process that may involve shortlisting and assessment by an expert committee.
- Relocation to Odense, Denmark, will be necessary, though the university provides support for international staff.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring researcher to gain deep expertise in cardiometabolic health within a well-funded, state-of-the-art laboratory. Whether you are a recent Master's graduate or currently finishing your degree, the flexible 4+4 program structure allows for a seamless transition into a doctoral career. The focus on both wet-lab and computational skills, combined with clinical ties, provides a strong foundation for future roles in academia, biotechnology, or clinical research.
Our take
Highly motivated life science graduates with a passion for metabolic research should seriously consider this role. It is particularly well-suited for those who thrive in international, team-oriented environments and are looking for a structured, fully-funded path to a PhD in a supportive academic setting.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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