PhD Fellowship in Cellular Mechanisms of Severe Post-Acute Disease Biology
Investigate cellular immunometabolism and post-acute infectious disease trajectories at the University of Copenhagen.
Best for:Best for life science graduates with expertise in cell culture, mitochondrial metabolism, and molecular biology techniques.
Overview
The University of Copenhagen is offering a three-year PhD fellowship within the Desler Group at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, focusing on the cellular mechanisms underlying severe post-acute disease biology. The interdisciplinary research project bridges human cohort data with in vitro models to explore how mitochondrial dysfunction, immunometabolic reprogramming, and inflammatory responses contribute to long-term post-viral sequelae. The successful candidate will carry out independent experimental research, develop transwell barrier models, perform metabolic flux analyses, and contribute to teaching and public outreach. Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree and bring hands-on expertise in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques.
What you'll do
- Conduct an independent research project investigating cellular mechanisms of post-acute infectious disease under supervision
- Develop and optimize transwell barrier models to study the impact of circulating factors on disease-relevant cellular systems
- Perform mitochondrial and metabolic analyses, including Seahorse XF metabolic flux assays
- Integrate experimental in vitro findings with multi-omics and clinical dataset analyses
- Complete PhD coursework and educational requirements equivalent to approximately 30 ECTS points
- Supervise undergraduate students, assist with teaching duties, and engage in scientific dissemination and public outreach
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Human Biology, Molecular Biomedicine, Biotechnology, or a related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and oral communication skills
Instruction: English
Publications: Previous publications are required
- Hands-on experience and expertise in mammalian cell culture
- Laboratory experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques such as qPCR and Western blotting
- Strong background in mitochondrial metabolism and performance of mitochondrial analyses including Seahorse XF metabolic flux analysis
- Prior experience working on EU Horizon projects
- Demonstrated publication record
- Strong collaborative and independent working skills within an international research environment
- Master's degree must be equivalent to a Danish Master's degree
- Enrollment as a PhD student at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-13 (CET)
Prepare all required application documents in PDF format, including a motivated letter, CV, diplomas, and publication list. Submit your application electronically via the online recruitment portal before the stated deadline.
- Motivated letter of application
- CV
- Master of Science diploma and transcript of records
- List of publications
Contact
Claus Desler· Principal Supervisor
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