PhD Position in Stem Cell-Based Disease Modelling of Schizophrenia
Investigate the molecular mechanisms of schizophrenia using human stem cell-derived organoids at the University of Copenhagen.
Best for:Best for aspiring researchers with a Master's degree and hands-on experience in stem cell biology, organoid culturing, and single-cell transcriptomics.
Overview
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW) at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a fully funded three-year PhD position focusing on in vitro disease modelling of schizophrenia. Under the supervision of Associate Professor Agnete Kirkeby, the successful candidate will work with patient-derived human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and 3D neuronal organoids to study neurodevelopmental pathology. Responsibilities include wet-lab stem cell differentiation, integration of microglia, single-cell RNA sequencing, and advanced bioinformatic analysis. Applicants should possess a relevant Master's degree, strong collaborative skills, and a foundational background in neuroscience or stem cell biology.
What you'll do
- Culture and differentiate patient-derived human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into 3D neuronal cultures and organoids
- Perform quality control of neural cultures utilizing qRT-PCR and immunocytochemistry
- Incorporate microglia into 3D neuronal cultures to model cellular co-cultures
- Execute large-scale single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing on neural differentiation samples
- Perform bioinformatic analysis of single-cell transcriptomic datasets and conduct donor deconvolution
- Manage an independent research project with a high degree of autonomy in planning and execution
- Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary team members and contribute actively to a positive group environment
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science degree in Biology, Biomedicine, Biotechnology, Human Biology, Medicine, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory
Instruction: English
Publications: A strong academic track record with a productive publication list is viewed favorably
- Experience working with pluripotent stem cells and 3D neural organoid culturing
- Practical and theoretical experience with single-cell transcriptomics, wet-lab techniques, and bioinformatics
- Demonstrated collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal teamwork skills
- Strong scientific curiosity and capacity to critically evaluate complex biological literature
- Must hold a relevant Master's degree prior to appointment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-28 (Europe/Copenhagen)
Candidates must submit their application electronically through the University of Copenhagen job portal by clicking the apply link. Applications must include a motivated letter, a complete CV, a publication list, and Master's diploma with transcripts in PDF format. E-mailed applications will not be evaluated.
- Motivated letter of application
- CV
- Publication list
- Master of Science diploma and transcript of records
Contact
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