Postdoc in Strain Evolution and Engineering of C1-trophic Microorganisms BRIGHT

Are you passionate about sustainability and reducing environmental impact through biomanufacturing Then come join us in advancing technologies for developing robust microbial cell factories and scalable bioprocesses that convert CO₂-derived feedstocks into high-volume chemicals. This multi-year initiative consists of joint efforts between multiple groups covering the entire innovation pipeline from metabolic tools and design strain engineering process design fermentation downstream processing multi-omics techno-economic validation and business development. We aim to establish new industrial routes for essential chemicals in a low-carbon economy through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Responsibilities and qualifications
In this position you will employ cutting-edge methodologies to evolve engineer and study microorganisms capable of growth on CO₂ and derived feedstocks. Your goal will be to develop robust microbial strains for C1-based biomanufacturing applications. You will work in an interdisciplinary systems biology team and in close contact with computational and wet lab scientists under the supervision of Dr. Stefano Donati.

Your primary tasks will be to

• Perform cutting edge research in microbial systems biology and metabolic engineering
• Support research efforts of fellow team-members
• Supervise MSc student projects
• Publish results in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Present results in international conferences

Key selection criteria:

• Professional qualifications relevant for the position
• A strong and proven track record of bringing projects to completion
• Strong experience in experimental microbial systems biology and molecular biology
• Experience in multi-omics data generation analysis (transcriptomics proteomics metabolomics) and sequencing technologies
• First-hand experience working with mini bioreactor and adaptive laboratory evolution
• Willingness to work in a diverse multi-disciplinary and highly collaborative team
• Programming skills in R or Python
• Strong language skills (English)
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Creative thinking
• Level of enthusiasm and motivation

As a formal qualification you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research education innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation ofProfessional addition supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTUs salary structure for scientific staff: allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. Starting date is(or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Dr. Stefano Donati

You can read more about BRIGHT at you are applying from abroad you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU atDTU Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 19 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply please open the link Apply now fill out the online application form and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age gender disability race religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology which is subject to special rules for security and export control open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

About BRIGHT The Novo Nordisk Foundation Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition (BRIGHT) is a major initiative based at DTU that aims to accelerate the development of biosolutions and strengthen the bio-based economy. BRIGHT serves as a hub for academic and industrial partners working together to unlock the potential of bioproduction. BRIGHT focuses on three main areas: Sustainable materials (Developing bio-based alternatives to fossil-derived materials) Microbial foods (Innovating food production through microbial technologies) and Microorganisms for net-zero agriculture (Creating solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture). The goal is to develop and scale innovative biosolutions within these areas ultimately creating sustainable and competitive alternatives to fossil-based products and processes that can make significant contributions to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.

DTU For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europes leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europes global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13800 students 1600 PhD students and 6500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive stimulating and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.