Postdoc in Soft Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering DTU Engineering Technology

DTU Engineering Technology is offering a postdoctoral position on the design synthesis and characterization of soft scaffolds for tissue engineering. Soft porous materials such as collagen foams are used in tissue repair and regeneration by serving as scaffolds that provide attachment sites and mechanical support for cells. Nonetheless traditional synthesis techniques lack control over microstructural features which leads to uncertainty over the resulting mechanical behavior of the scaffolds. This project funded by Novo Nordisk Foundation focuses on bioprinting and characterization of soft scaffolds with programmed morphological characteristics and tailored mechanical properties. The research will be supervised by Associate Professor Stavros Gaitanaros.

As part of the project you will develop as a researcher and deepen your technical skills. Furthermore you will have the opportunity to build a network and disseminate your research at national and international conferences. Our section values a diverse interdisciplinary and collaborative environment while promotes social activities outside of working hours to strengthen collegiality.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The project aims to examine the mechanical behavior of soft scaffolds with different architectures with the goal of (a) mimicking the behavior of native tissue and (b) tailoring the large deformation material response by tuning morphological characteristics at different length scales.

You are expected to:

• Synthesize of cellular structures with increased complexity using extrusion-based bioprinting
• Perform structure quantification by tomography and imaging
• Perform testing across different scales i.e. characterizing the viscoelastic properties of the base material and the nonlinear mechanics of the scaffolds.

We are looking for a creative and independent researcher with a PhD in mechanics (bio)materials or similar fields and strong background in additive manufacturing and experiments. You must have demonstrated the ability to perform high-quality research evidenced by publications in established journals. Excellent communication skills in English and academic writing are required. Active dissemination of the results in scientific articles and participation in national and international conferences is integral to the job. You are also expected to participate in the supervision and mentoring of BEng BSc and MSc students.

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

The period of employment is one year. The expected starting date is 1^st of May 2026 (or according to mutual agreement).

You can read more aboutcareer paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Stavros Gaitanaros (staga@)or the head of the section Associate ProfessorChristianKimChristiansen(chkch@).

You can read more about DTU Engineering Technology 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 than 31 January 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 specifically addressing how you can contribute to the project (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD in English)
• List of publications

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

We will continuously evaluate applications and initial interviews are expected to be held in the first week of February 2026.

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 DTU Engineering Technology
We work at the forefront of university-industry collaboration and develop tools and methods for technology implementation. We are organized in eight sections all focused on technology implementation engineering technology and engineering education within a wide range of engineering fields.

The Section for Mechanical Technology is striving to be a globally recognized player within the fields of design advanced materials autonomous systems and thermal processes aiming to create novel implementable technologies for sustainability energy and health. Our research efforts in advanced materials integrate novel synthesis and characterization techniques with state-of-the-art multi-scale modelling and scientific computing methods.

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.