About the opportunity
Are you excited by the idea of using microbial engineering to build foods with better nutritional profiles from the inside out? Eager to work at the interface of nutrition science, genetics, and fermentation in a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research environment? Curious about how the design choices we make now will shape a new global food category? Then join us as our new PhD Student in Molecular Nutrition and Strain Engineering! This position is a part of BRIGHT’s mission-oriented Microbial Food research programme (referred to as Mission 2), which aims to build an AI-powered framework for the rational design of microbial foods that meet four targets: consumer acceptance, health, sustainability and scalability. The first phase focuses on two fungal chassis, Aspergillus and Yarrowia, characterizing more than 500 prototypes through multi-omics, sensory analysis, life-cycle assessment and safety testing.
Salary and benefits
- 3 years of full-time employment and PhD scholarship
- Salary and appointment terms based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations
- Allowance agreed upon with the relevant union
- Opportunity to work in a leading international research environment with academic freedom
Who can apply?
- A two-year Master’s degree (120 ECTS points) in molecular biology, biotechnology, microbiology, nutrition science, or a closely related area, or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year Master's degree
- Excellent organizational and project management skills with a preference for developing new methods
- Fluent in spoken and written English and literacy in common IT systems and AI
- Experience with molecular biology techniques and exposure to genetic engineering of filamentous fungi or yeast is ideal
- Genuine interest in nutrition science and the biochemical basis of food quality
Required documents
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (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 27 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
- Start date is 01-01-2027 or according to mutual agreement
How to apply
- Open the online application link 'Apply now'
- Fill out the online application form
- Attach all required materials in English in one single PDF file
Additional information
- The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU.
- As DTU works with research in critical technology subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates.
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…
- Master's degree holders in molecular biology, biotechnology, microbiology, or nutrition science.
- Researchers with specific experience in genetic engineering of filamentous fungi or yeast.
- Individuals eager to work in an interdisciplinary environment focused on AI-powered food design.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is strictly on-site in Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark, requiring relocation if you are not already based there.
- The role involves security and export control background checks due to the nature of the research.
- Applicants must be prepared to commit to a full-time, three-year doctoral program.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This scholarship is an excellent fit for early-career researchers aiming to bridge the gap between molecular engineering and global food sustainability. It offers a structured path to a PhD within a mission-oriented program, providing the opportunity to contribute to high-impact research while gaining expertise in multi-omics and AI-driven methodology.
Our take
This is a premier opportunity for ambitious scientists interested in the future of food technology. It is less suitable for those seeking remote work or those without a strong foundation in molecular biology or fungal genetics.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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