A 1.5-year postdoc position in Biochemistry and Molecular Plant Biology with a focus on moss-cyanobacteria associations is available at the Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, commencing 01.01.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Scientific environment
The project is a collaborative effort between the groups of Associate Professor Kathrin Rousk, Terrestrial Ecology Section, and Professor Peter Brodersen, Section for Computational and RNA Biology. Kathrin Rousk heads the Ecosystem Ecology group focusing on moss-cyanobacteria associations across the globe, from the Arctic to the Tropics, while the group of Peter Brodersen focuses on understanding molecular mechanisms underlying genetic control in plants. The successful candidate will be hosted by Associate Professor Kathrin Rousk but will spend time in both laboratories.

The successful applicant will be affiliated with the Center for Volatile Interactions (VOLT, volt.ku.dk) at the department of Biology. We offer a creative, supportive and lively research environment covering a wide range of topics such as microbial ecology, plant ecophysiology, ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, soil biology and ecosystem-atmosphere interactions. We are a diverse group comprising research and teaching staff members, laboratory technicians, PhD candidates and MSc and BSc students, focusing on many aspects of plant and microbial ecology, biogeochemistry and global change.

Overall description of the project
The postdoctoral position is part of a 2.5-year project "Is moss the boss? Deciphering war and peace between moss and colonizing cyanobacteria" funded by the Danish Independent Research Fund, Dff, led by Kathrin Rousk.

For the postdoctoral project, the main goal is to elucidate the relationship mosses and colonizing, nitrogen (N) -fixing cyanobacteria share. The first step will be to identify and quantify nutrient exchange between moss and associated cyanobacteria using labelled (i.e. stable isotope 15N and radioactive isotope 35S) macronutrients into proteins of both partners. For this, we will use the model moss Physcomitrella patens. In another set of experiments, we will assess whether modulation of immune responses in mosses via N availability governs cyanobacterial colonization.

The postdoctoral researcher will co-supervise BSc and MSc students within the project.

Main tasks and responsibilities
Planning experiments, growing and culturing of mosses and cyanobacteria, protein isolation from mosses and cyanobacteria, stable and radioactive labelling and tracking, mass spectrometer measurements and analyses, western blots, N2 fixation measurements, bioinformatics, data analyses, data interpretation, and manuscript writing.

Qualifications
We are looking for a highly motivated and ambitious candidate with a PhD degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Plant Biology, or similar fields. Prior experience with molecular biology is required. Fluency in written and spoken English as well as good communication skills are requirements as exemplified by e.g. the track record of the applicant.

Skills/expertise
Skills and expertise in planning and conducting experiments with (model) plants, culturing of moss and bacteria, stable isotope tracking, experience with plant molecular biology and biochemistry such as western blots, immunoprecipitation, protein kinase assays, plant immune assays; data analysis using R and Python, multivariate statistics, project coordination, growth measurements of plants and bacteria.

For further information about the position, please contact Kathrin Rousk (kathrin.rousk@bio.ku.dk) or Peter Brodersen (pbrodersen@bio.ku.dk).

How to apply
Applications must be in English, submitted electronically by clicking ‘Apply now’ below, and include:

· A cover letter describing the motivation to apply for the position

· Curriculum vitae (max 2 pages)

· Complete list of publications

· Pdf files of the two most important publications

· Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)

· Contact details (name, address, telephone & email) of 2 professional referees

The deadline for applications is October 15th, 2025, 23:59 GMT+2.

Procedures
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

The work place

The University is situated in Copenhagen, which is consistently rated among the world’s top 10 most livable and sustainable cities. Life for families is made easier via a publicly supported daycare and healthcare system, dual-career opportunities, maternity/parental leave, and six weeks of annual vacation. International candidates may find useful information on living and working in Denmark. Useful information is also available at the university’s International Staff Mobility (ISM) office, which offers a variety of services to international researchers coming to and working at the University of Copenhagen. The office helps with practical matters before arrival such as with residence permits, housing, and childcare/school as well as during the stay with salary, tax, pension, insurance, banking, and getting accustomed with language and culture.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment according to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.