The Protein Research Group at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense is seeking a skilled doctoral candidate (DC, PhD student) to join our team. This role is pivotal in supporting the European Doctoral Network MIPrecise for development of novel affinity-binders for high-sensitivity proteomics and biomedical applications in cancer. 

This PhD position is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the international MIPrecise research project in a highly collaborative and dynamic working environment at SDU, Odense, DK. 

Project supervisor: Professor Ole Nørregaard Jensen

Workplace: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark

The position is for 3 years and is available from February 1, 2026.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Use protein design concepts and deep-learning computational methods to develop novel protein-based affinity-binders for detection and quantification of post-translational modifications in proteins and peptides.

• Produce, purify and test selected designer proteins for enrichment of cancer biomarkers and to understand cellular signalling pathways involving post-translational modifications, including methylated and phosphorylated protein species.

• Complete coursework (30 ECTS) and contribute to workshops and training events within the MIPrecise consortium. 

• Visit collaborating research groups at Malmö University (S), University of Pavia (I), ReSyn Biosciences (RSA) and Proteome Sciences (D) for advanced training.

What We Offer:

• Cutting-Edge Research: Join one of Europe’s leading mass spectrometry and proteomics research groups. 

• Advanced Methodologies: Develop novel computational and experimental techniques to improve protein and proteome analysis in cancer and cell signaling research.

• Collaborative Environment: Be part of our interdisciplinary team with protein biochemistry, bioinformatics, and mass spectrometry expertise.

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access SDU UCloud high performance computer for protein structure prediction and analysis. take advantage of our advanced laboratory facilities and mass spectrometry instruments for testing of novel designer-binders.

• International Exposure: Present your findings for MIPrecise partners, participate in conferences and collaborate with experienced researchers.

• Benefit from competitive salary and social benefits, including health coverage and support for international candidates (relocation, visa assistance).

Your Academic Profile:

• Qualifications: An MSc degree (or equivalent experience) in computational protein science, biochemistry or molecular cell biology with a strong component of computational biology and/or protein 3D structure prediction and analysis.

• Experience in computational and experimental protein science: Candidates with experience in protein 3D structure analysis, protein expression and characterization will be prioritized.

• Programming Skills: Working knowledge in standard scripting languages such as R and Python is recommended.

• Further Technologies: Experience in protein 3D structure prediction and analysis by AlphaFold, RosettaFold, or similar tools is recommended.

Personal Competencies:

• Independence and Creativity: Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills with a passion for scientific research

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary research projects and collaborate with a diverse and international team of scientists and students. 

• Flexibility: Willingness to take on various tasks and adapt to new challenges. Mobility is a requirement as part of this international research project.

• Communication Skills: Proficiency in the English language (speaking, reading, writing) and excellent communications and presentation skills.

Please see the full call, including how to apply, on https://fa-eosd-saasfaprod1.fa.ocs.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/da/sites/CX_1001/job/3298/?utm_medium=jobshare