About the opportunity
The PhD project aims to describe the molecular structure of casein micelles through computational and experimental investigations, with a focus on the role of kappa-caseins. The candidate will join the CaIFF center for the use of neutrons in food science and pharmacy. The project involves building molecular models via state-of-the-art molecular dynamics simulations and validating them through advanced X-ray and neutron scattering experiments. The expected start date is January 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for a maximum of 3 years
- 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
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, national and European supercomputer facilities, and international synchrotron and neutron facilities
Who can apply?
- Must have completed a degree programme equivalent to a Danish master's degree (180 ECTS BSc plus 120 ECTS MSc) related to the subject area of the project
- Strong background in molecular modelling applied to food or structural biology
- Good written and oral communication skills in English
Required documents
- Motivated letter of application of maximum one page
- Curriculum vitae including education, experience, language skills, and other relevant skills
- Original diplomas for Bachelor and Master degrees and transcripts of records in the original language, with an authorized English or Danish translation if issued in another language
- Publication list if available
- Reference letters if available
When to apply
- Application deadline is November 1, 2026, at 23:59 GMT+1
- Interviews are expected to be held in November or December 2026
- Expected start date is January 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter
How to apply
- Prepare all required application documents in English
- Submit the application electronically through the official online recruitment system via the Apply Now link by the deadline
Additional information
- Employment is conditional upon successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen
- The position includes completing PhD courses corresponding to approximately 30 ECTS, participating in active research environments including a stay at another research institution, teaching, and writing scientific papers
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 molecular dynamics simulations such as coarse-grained force fields like Martini
- Experience with X-ray and neutron scattering experiments or wet lab protein purification and colloidal systems
- Interest in interdisciplinary research bridging physics, food science, and computational modelling
What should you think carefully about?
- The position requires relocation to Denmark for a fixed duration of three years
- Applicants must meet specific academic degree equivalence standards set by the university
- The workload includes mandatory coursework, teaching duties, and research stays abroad alongside thesis writing
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fully funded PhD fellowship is ideal for researchers aiming to build a rigorous academic career in soft matter physics, computational biology, or food science. It offers high-level international exposure, access to world-class facilities like MAX-IV and the European Spallation Source, and a strong publishing platform.
Our take
Applicants with a solid foundation in molecular modelling and an interest in structural biophysics should seriously consider applying before the November deadline. Those lacking relevant computational or experimental background may find this highly specialized project less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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