Two PhD Fellowships in Forensic Chemistry of Peptides and Proteins
Join the University of Copenhagen to advance mass spectrometry-based methods for peptide and protein analysis in forensic toxicology.
Best for:Best for analytical chemists and graduates with strong LC-MS experience interested in forensic toxicology and proteomics.
Overview
The Department of Forensic Medicine at the University of Copenhagen is offering two PhD fellowships focused on forensic chemistry, specifically analyzing peptides and proteins in biological or seized materials. The first project investigates peptide and protein therapeutics like GLP-1 receptor agonists and insulin in biological matrices, while the second project examines performance- and appearance-enhancing substances in illicit products. Successful candidates will conduct independent research, utilize advanced LC-MS instrumentation, complete coursework, and contribute to forensic casework and scientific literature. The positions require close collaboration with public authorities and entail a three-year full-time research commitment preceded by an initial research assistant period.
What you'll do
- Execute an independent research project within forensic chemistry under academic supervision.
- Develop and validate advanced LC-MS and LC-HRMS methods for detecting and quantifying peptides and proteins in biological or seized samples.
- Investigate the stability, degradation pathways, and structural characterization of therapeutic or illicit peptide compounds.
- Complete approximately 30 ECTS points in PhD courses and participate in active research environments including external research stays.
- Engage in teaching activities and disseminate research findings through academic writing and a final PhD thesis.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree equivalent to a Danish master's degree (180 ECTS BSc + 120 ECTS MSc)
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; high proficiency required
Instruction: English
Publications: Previous publications are considered an advantage during evaluation but are not strictly mandated.
- Strong academic background in analytical chemistry, forensic chemistry, or a closely related field
- Demonstrated academic qualification at the master's level with a competitive grade point average
- Ability to design, conduct, and document independent laboratory experiments
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills applied to complex biological or chemical samples
- Must hold a relevant academic degree equivalent to a Danish master's degree
- Must be successfully admitted to the Graduate School at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen
Funding & terms
How to apply
Submit your application electronically through the official university portal by clicking the apply button. Ensure you explicitly indicate whether you are applying for PhD 1, PhD 2, or both, and include all required application documents in PDF format.
- Motivated letter of application
- CV
- Master of Science diploma and transcript of records
- Authorized English translation of transcripts if issued in other languages
Contact
Marie Katrine Klose Nielsen / Brian Schou Rasmussen· Senior Researcher / Principal Supervisor
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