Postdoctoral opportunity at the intersection of yeast synthetic biology and neuroethology DTU Biosustain

We are looking for an ambitious candidate for a Postdoc position in a collaborative research project between the Center for Biosustainability (CfB) at Technical University of Denmark (DEN) the UC Davis Genome Center (USA) and the University of Konstanz (GER). In this interdisciplinary research project we aim to combine scientific excellence within yeast synthetic biology analytical chemistry neuroethology and collective animal intelligence to develop predictive models on honeybee behaviour in response to chemical cues. If you care about biological diversity sustainable ecosystems and you are motivated by bringing together state-of-the-art expertise in a high-risk/high-gain project devoted to understanding the molecular cues and neuronal signalling underlying insect behaviour then this project could be the right career opportunity for you.

Focus and scope
Honeybees are essential to maintaining biological diversity and food supply chains yet planet Earth is experiencing regional crisis both in terms of abundance diversity and biomass. Importantly insects form a natural treasure chest for studying animal development learning and behaviour controlled by receptors sensing and responding to the chemical landscape surrounding them as well as the chemical signals inside of them. This project is devoted to gather large data sets to investigate links in olfactory receptor signalling neuronal activation and honeybee behaviour (social immunity).

Responsibilities and qualifications
Within this interdisciplinary project the successful candidate hired at Technical University of Denmark will be responsible for leading a large-scale engineering effort arming yeast cells with honeybee olfactory receptors for sensing and responding to diverse chemical and biological cues. Additionally the candidate will be leading the building of a database to i) guide neuroethological studies (behaviour and physiology) in honeybees at University of Konstanz and ii) train algorithms aimed at modelling and predicting honeybee behaviour for social immunity in response to identified receptor-ligand hits. The key responsibilities of the successful candidate will include:

• Design engineer and characterize honeybee receptors in yeast.
• Develop insect receptor data infrastructure.
• Coordinate data sharing and hypothesis testing with collaborators.
• Publish impactful scientific papers.

Required Qualifications

• A PhD degree within bioengineering biotechnology neuroscience or related fields is a suitable applicant for the fellowship.
• A scientific record with international publications.
• Creativity and openness to innovation.
• Enthusiasm responsibility and excellent collaboration skills.
• Keen on generating high-quality data.
• Strong oral and written skills in English.
• Experience working in biological systems.

Specific Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have expertise in one or more of the following research areas without being an exhaustive list:

• Proven track-record within synthetic biology ideally within yeast.
• Knowledge of olfaction calcium or GPCR signalling is preferred.
• Experience with biological assay developments such as bulk and single-cell reporter assays.
• Programming skills (e.g. Python R).

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

We offer
The position offers a unique possibility of being part of an interdisciplinary research team working on building foundational knowledge linking receptor signalling and animal behaviour using a yeast synthetic biology the section Synthetic Biology Tools for Yeast under supervision of Dr. Emil D. Jensen we offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international and friendly environment.

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 of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment ends on 30-Jun-2027. Preferred start date: January 2026.

You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.

Further information
If you are in any way in doubt of whether this position applies to you or if you have any other related questions please reach out! Further information may be obtained from Dr. Emil D. Jensen ().You can read more about DTU Biosustain at.

If 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 than22 October 2025 (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
• List of patents (if any)

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age genderdisability race religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability (DTU Biosustain)
Recent progress in our ability to read and write genomic code combined with advances in automation analytics and data science has fundamentally changed the scope and ambition of harnessing the potential of biological systems. Big data approaches and analysis of biological systems are key research instruments at the Center. DTU Biosustain utilizes these advances for microbial cell factory design to foster sustainable lifestyles in relation to three application areas: Sustainable Chemicals Natural Products and Microbial Foods.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UNs 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13500 students and 6000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive evolving and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.