We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced PhD candidate to conduct research in neuronal synaptic development and function, mitochondrial biology, and mitophagy. The ideal candidate will also have a strong track record in bioinformatics to analyze bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing, proteomics, and lipidomics.


Our Research
Our team investigates the molecular pathways through which immune-related genes influence neuronal development and function, as well as the mechanisms underlying inflammatory processes in the central nervous system.


Your Role
As a PhD candidate, you will join a multidisciplinary research team while working independently, supported by documented experience from your bachelor’s or master’s thesis, or equivalent research training. Your responsibilities will include designing and conducting experiments using both in vitro and in vivo models of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative/inflammatory diseases.

Experience in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, and bioinformatics is essential. Prior work involving mitochondrial biology and mitophagy in neuronal cells is a prerequisite. You must have proven expertise in cellular and molecular neuroscience and immunology techniques, including primary neuronal culture, immunofluorescence cytology, and immunohistochemistry. Familiarity with flow cytometry (FACS) is highly advantageous. You should also be proficient in methods for assessing mitochondrial function, such as Seahorse assays, oxidative stress measurements, and mitochondrial DNA damage analyses, using molecular biology, biochemical techniques, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and advanced imaging (including confocal microscopy).


Profile
We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly driven scientist with demonstrated competencies in the areas listed below.


Essential Experience and Skills

• Master’s degree in neuroimmunology with strong skills in bioinformatic analysis
• Documented experience in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, mitophagy, mitochondrial function, and mitochondrial DNA biology in neuronal cells
• Proven experience working with rodents and neurodegenerative or inflammatory disease models
• Excellent written and spoken English

Desirable Experience and Skills

• Expertise in tissue-based neurodegenerative disease models, in vivo rodent models, histopathology, mitochondrial homeostasis and mitophagy
• Experience in microscopy and imaging, including image analysis using FIJI, SlideBook, or Amira
• Skills in protein biochemistry and bioinformatic analysis of multi-omics datasets
  

Place of employment

The place of employment is at BRIC, Biocenter, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include modern laboratories and the state-of-the-art technologies.


Terms of salary and employment

The employment as PhD student is a full time and fixed-term position for 3 years. Starting date is preferred from February 02, 2026. Employment will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Currently, the monthly salary starts at 31,200 DKK/approx. 4,100 EUR (November 2025 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18.07 % to your pension fund.

Questions

For further information regarding the position, please contact shohreh.issazadeh@bric.ku.dk

Application

Your application should in [English] include:

• Letter of application addressing the requirements (max. one page).
• Curriculum Vitae
• A certified/signed copy of certificate(s) of Master
  

Please submit your application by clicking on “Apply Now” below. Only online applications will be accepted.


Application deadline: 23 December 2025, 23.59 CET


We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

Interviews are expected to be held in the following week after deadline.


University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.