PhD scholarship in synthetic carbohydrate chemistry DTU Chemistry

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated organic synthetic chemist for our program within carbohydrate chemistry and oligosaccharide synthesis.

You will join the team working towards the chemical synthesis of defined oligosaccharides related to the plant cell wall glycan RG-II. We are looking for a creative mind with excellent practical lab skills to design and execute smart syntheses in collaboration with experienced postdocs.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The main responsibility is to design and execute synthetic routes to oligosaccharides. You will join a research lab with a broad interest in chemical biology and a long-standing interest in plant cell wall glycans and glycan-based vaccines. Undergraduate research projects can be integrated in the projects and you are expected to interact with and co-supervise those projects. Additionally teaching responsibilities can be expected mainly involving laboratory courses. You will be enrolled in the DTU Chemistry PhD school and follow bespoke PhD course during your studies.

You must have a two-year masters degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year masters degree.

• Candidates should have an MSc degree in chemistry with a strong theoretical and experimental background in organic chemistry.
• An interest in chemical biology and a desire to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
• A documented track record of carrying out multi-step syntheses especially within carbohydrate chemistry is an advantage for this position.
• A strong commitment to research training.
• Independence and strong communication skills.

In the assessment of the candidates consideration will be given to:

• Relevance of background experience.
• Passion for research and scientific discoveries.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

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 programs at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study program please see DTUs rules for the PhD education.

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 September 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). 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 Professor Mads H. Clausen

You can read more about DTU Chemistry at more about the research group at 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 than23 April 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:

• 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 Chemistryperforms research educational activities and innovation at a high international level within e.g. energy catalysis and materials. The overall aim is to contribute with new knowledge about basic scientific problems and carry out research with vast application perspectives - to the benefit of both society and companies.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programs 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.