PhD scholarship in Functional Genomics of C1-trophic Microorganisms - BRIGHT

Jobbeskrivelse

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 PhD position, you will develop molecular tools to study gene function in microorganisms of interest for bioprocesses using CO₂ and derived compounds as feedstocks. 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 functional genomics
• Fulfil educational requirements of the DTU BRIGHT PhD school
• 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 proven track record of bringing projects to completion
• Strong background in molecular biology and development of genetic engineering tools (including CRISPR-cas tools) for non-model microorganisms
• First-hand experience working in a microbiology laboratory and relevant instruments, including mini bioreactors, HPLC, PCR, etc.
• Experience in multi-omics data generation and analysis (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and sequencing data analysis
• Willingness to work in a diverse, multi-disciplinary and highly collaborative team
• Strong language skills (English)
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Creative thinking
• Level of enthusiasm and motivation

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

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 DTU's rules for the PhD education.

Assessment

The assessment of the applicants will be made by Dr. Stefano Donati.

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.

Application procedure

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 17 July 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 master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.