PhD Fellowship in Plant Nutrition at University of Copenhagen

About the opportunity

The Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at the University of Copenhagen invites applicants for a PhD fellowship in foliar application of nanozymes. The position is part of the research project ‘Biocompatible nanozymes with anti-oxidative properties to increase crop resilience in a changing climate’, funded by The Independent Research Fund Denmark. The successful candidate will investigate the mechanisms by which biocompatible Fe-, Mn- and Zn-based nanozymes are taken up, transported, and function within plants under drought stress, utilizing advanced imaging techniques such as LA-ICP-TOF-MS, TEM-EDX, and confocal microscopy. The expected start date is January 1st, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Salary and benefits

• Full-time employment for a maximum of 3 years as a PhD fellow.
• Salary and terms of appointment in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.
• Close scientific mentorship within the Plant Nutrition Research Group.
• Access to world-class infrastructure and advanced imaging facilities.
• Opportunities for teaching, knowledge dissemination, and a research stay at another research institution.

Who can apply?

• Hold a Master's degree (or equivalent to a Danish Master's degree of 120 ECTS / 2 FTE, following a 180 ECTS / 3 FTE Bachelor's degree) in Plant Science, Biology, Agricultural Science, Nanoscience, Biotechnology, or a related discipline.
• Strong interest in the interface between plant science, nanotechnology, and advanced imaging.
• Curious mindset with good language skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international environment.

Required documents

• Motivated letter of application (maximum one page) detailing your motivation for applying for the specific project.
• Curriculum vitae including education, experience, language skills, and other relevant skills.
• Original diplomas for Bachelor or Master and transcripts of records in the original language, along with an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish.
• Certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor if the degree is not yet completed.
• Publication list (if applicable).
• Reference letters (if available).

When to apply

• Application deadline is 23 October 2026, 23:59 GMT+2.
• Interviews with selected candidates are expected to be held in weeks 45 and 46 of 2026.
• Expected start date is 1 January 2027.

How to apply

• Prepare all required application documents in English.
• Submit the application electronically via the official online recruitment system by clicking the apply link on the job portal before the deadline.

Additional information

• The position is based at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen.
• Employment is conditional upon successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of Science.
• The principal supervisor is Professor Søren Husted (shu@plen.ku.dk).