PhD scholarship in single-cell multiomics in rare cell populations from liquid biopsies DTU Bioengineering

Are you motivated by the potential of proteomics to uncover hidden biology Do you want to map the proteomes of circulating tumour cells and reveal novel proteins with therapeutic and diagnostic potential Join a collaborative PhD project at DTU Bioengineering focused on single-cell proteomicsbased analysis of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from patients with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC).

As part of the EU-funded MIPrecise network (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network) you will develop and apply advanced mass spectrometry and nanoliquid handling workflows to characterize individual tumour cells isolated from patient blood samples. The project builds on molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based probes developed by MIPrecise partners to selectively capture and fluorescently label CTCs enabling precise isolation and downstream single-cell analysis. Using state-of-the-art Orbitrap mass spectrometry automated sample preparation and computational integration with transcriptomic data you will identify protein signatures linked to tumour aggressiveness and metastasis and define multiomic biomarkers for improved cancer detection and patient stratification.

You will join the Cell Diversity Lab at DTU Bioengineering led by Associate Professor Erwin M. Schoof an international leader in single-cell proteomics and collaborate closely with BAM (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung) LNU (Linnaeus University) and UMU (Umeå University). The position offers extensive training in mass spectrometry microfluidics data analysis and cancer biology within a vibrant interdisciplinary European network dedicated to developing molecularly precise sustainable diagnostic technologies.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Your overall focus will be to develop and apply single-cell proteomics workflows for the analysis of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients. You will work closely with MIPrecise partners to implement and optimize molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based enrichment strategies integrate advanced mass spectrometry and liquid handling automation and analyze multiomic data to identify biomarkers of tumour aggressiveness and metastasis. The position combines hands-on experimental work with data-driven analysis and offers close collaboration across academia and industry.

Your primary tasks will be to:

• Develop and optimize nanoliquid handling and single-cell proteomics workflows.
• Perform sample preparation data acquisition and analysis using Orbitrap-based mass spectrometry.
• Collaborate with MIPrecise partners to integrate MIP-based CTC capture and fluorescence sorting.
• Combine proteomic and transcriptomic data for multiomic biomarker discovery.
• Document and communicate results through publications presentations and project meetings.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners across Europe.
• Participate in relevant courses workshops and training events within the MIPrecise network.

You must have:

• A two-year masters degree (120 ECTS points) (or equivalent) in biotechnology biochemistry analytical chemistry bioengineering molecular biology or a related field.
• Strong experimental skills in biochemistry cell biology or analytical workflows.
• Interest in single-cell analysis cancer biology and translational research.
• Basic level expertise in computational biology (e.g. bioinformatics machine learning) with a strong willingness to advance these skill sets on biological data.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an international interdisciplinary team.
• Good communication skills in English both written and spoken.
• A curiosity-driven mindset and enthusiasm for developing and applying cutting-edge technologies to address biomedical questions.
• A proactive attitude towards learning and applying new skills.HS1PN2

It would further be beneficial if you have some of the following skills:

• Prior experience with mass spectrometry proteomics or microfluidics.
• Experience with programming (Python preferred) for bioinformatics or data science applications.
• Demonstrated track record with single-cell technologies (experimental and/or data analytics).

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme please see DTUs rules for the PhD education.

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Associate Professor Erwin M. Schoof (DTU Bioengineering) in collaboration with representatives from the MIPrecise consortium including partners from BAM (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung) LNU (Linnaeus University) and UMU (Umeå University) to ensure a fair and transparent evaluation aligned with the interdisciplinary and intersectoral goals of the network.

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 appointment terms
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 is 3 years.

Starting date is 1^st of April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Erwin M. Schoof

You can read more about DTU Bioengineering at

If you are applying from abroad you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU Moving to you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar PhDrelocation to Denmark and startup Zoom seminar for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than30 November 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:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to obtaining your masters degree but cannot begin before having received it.

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.

The Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)is an international leader in the areas of biotechnology and biomedicine. Our engineering approach to all aspects of biotechnology and biomedicine positions us as a valuable player with unique competences in a growing bio-based economy and with health systems transforming towards personalized medicine. We have a clear focus on the needs in the life science- and biotech industries and point towards innovation new businesses and scientific services for the benefit of society. The department has extensive collaborations with national and international research units and industry. DTU Bioengineering has approx. 400 employees of which 2/3 are scientific department is located at DTU Lyngby Campus.

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.