About the opportunity
This PhD position is part of the BUG-ID Doctoral Network, an EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie initiative. Based at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition (BRIGHT) at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), the successful candidate will work under Prof. Ivan Mijakovic. The research project focuses on identifying and engineering nucleic acid aptamers and protein-based receptors to detect microbial biomarkers. The role is highly interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with international partners in academia and industry to integrate these receptors into innovative graphene-based biosensors for infection diagnostics.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for a period of 3 years.
- Competitive salary following the Marie Skłodowska-Curie compensation scheme.
- Monthly base salary of at least DKK 30,264.08 plus a PhD supplement of DKK 1,580.90.
- Pension contribution of 18.07% paid by the university.
- Eligibility to apply for a family allowance.
- Participation in a prestigious international research network with specialized training and outreach opportunities.
Who can apply?
- Must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in molecular biology or a related field.
- Strong practical experience in experimental molecular biology, including PCR and DNA manipulation.
- MSCA Mobility Rule: Applicants must not have resided or worked in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately preceding the appointment.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to work independently and solve complex experimental problems.
- Experience with SELEX or protein engineering is considered a distinct advantage.
Required documents
- Cover letter (motivation letter) outlining research interests and career goals.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Grade transcripts for both Bachelor's and Master's degrees.
- BSc and MSc diplomas (in English) including the official grading scale.
- All documents must be combined into a single PDF file.
When to apply
- Application deadline: November 29, 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
- Online interviews: Scheduled for early January 2027.
- Expected start date: February 1, 2027.
How to apply
- Ensure all application materials are in English.
- Merge all required documents into one PDF file.
- Access the DTU job portal via the "Apply now" link.
- Complete the online form and upload the consolidated PDF.
Additional information
- Enrollment is subject to academic approval by DTU's PhD degree programs.
- Candidates may apply before finishing their Master's degree but must have it by the start date.
- The university may conduct open-source background checks for security and export control compliance.
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…
- This role is a perfect match for molecular biologists who enjoy hands-on lab work and want to see their research applied to real-world medical diagnostics.
- It is ideal for candidates who thrive in international environments and value the networking opportunities provided by an EU-funded Doctoral Network.
- Applicants with specific experience in SELEX or protein engineering will find this project a natural and rewarding extension of their skills.
What should you think carefully about?
- The MSCA mobility rule is a strict requirement; if you have lived in Denmark for more than a year recently, you are ineligible regardless of your qualifications.
- The project involves significant interdisciplinary coordination, which requires strong communication skills and the ability to work across different scientific domains.
- Relocation to Denmark is mandatory, though the university provides support and seminars to assist with the transition.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This PhD offers a comprehensive pathway into the high-growth field of biosensor technology and molecular diagnostics. By combining rigorous academic research with industrial collaboration, it prepares the researcher for leadership roles in biotech R&D or specialized academic tracks. The MSCA fellowship status also provides a globally recognized mark of excellence that can significantly enhance future grant applications and career mobility.
Our take
This is a premier opportunity for international researchers looking to launch a career in biotechnology within a top-tier European technical university. It is best suited for those ready to relocate and engage in a collaborative, multi-partner research environment.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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