About the opportunity
This position is part of BRIGHT’s mission-oriented Microbial Food research programme (Mission 2), aiming to build an AI-powered framework for the rational design of microbial foods. The project is a collaboration between the Sustainable Food Innovation Group and the Fermentation Cultures Group at the Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition. You will conduct an interdisciplinary project on spontaneous solid-state fermentation starters to support food science and innovation for sustainability. The role involves generating and analyzing metagenomic, metabolomic, and toxicological data, planning a global survey of traditional solid-state fermentation starters, and sharing results through academic publications and practical knowledge.
Salary and benefits
- Fully-funded 3-year full-time PhD position with a competitive salary based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations
- Opportunity to work in an international, cutting-edge research environment at a leading technical university
Who can apply?
- Two-year Master's degree (120 ECTS points) in a relevant discipline or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year Master's degree
- Fluent in spoken and written English with literacy in common IT systems
- Experience with food fermentation and microbiology is an advantage
- Familiarity with or interest in learning social science methods and fieldwork
- Basic knowledge about food science, food microbiology, food systems, and sustainability issues
- Experience making traditional and/or novel fermentations
Required documents
- Cover letter (letter motivating the application)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diplomas in English including official description of grading scale
- One letter of reference with referee's email and phone number
When to apply
- Application deadline is 13 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
- Start date is 01 January 2027 or according to mutual agreement
How to apply
- Open the online application link and fill out the application form
- Prepare all required materials in English and combine them into one single PDF file
- Submit the complete online application no later than 13 September 2026
Additional information
- You may apply prior to obtaining your Master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
- Open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates due to research in critical technology subject to export control rules.
- For further information, contact Group Leader Joshua Evans at joshuae@dtu.dk.
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 Master's degree in food science, microbiology, or related disciplines.
- Individuals interested in interdisciplinary research involving metagenomics, metabolomics, and fieldwork.
- Researchers eager to contribute to sustainable food innovation within an international academic environment.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is strictly on-site in Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark, requiring relocation if you are not already based there.
- Applicants must be prepared for potential open-source background checks due to export control regulations on critical technology.
- You must hold your Master's degree by the start date of January 1, 2027.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This three-year PhD position is ideal for an early-career researcher looking to build expertise in microbial food systems and sustainability. By working within the BRIGHT program at DTU, you will gain experience in both laboratory-based data analysis and global fieldwork, providing a strong foundation for a future career in academic research or sustainable food technology.
Our take
This is an excellent opportunity for motivated food science researchers who thrive in collaborative, mission-oriented environments and are ready to commit to a three-year doctoral program in Denmark.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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