Postdoc in DNA repair - DTU Bioengineering

The DNA of cells is challenged by thousands of DNA lesions every cell division and it is crucial that the lesions are repaired with high fidelity to avoid mutations, genome rearrangements, and cell death. 

Are you passionate about understanding how cells maintain the genome and do you have a desire to use cutting-edge high-throughput methods in combination with the use of fluorescence microscopy to generate new insights into how cells coordinate and repair DNA double-strand breaks? Using baker’s yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as a model organism, the project is designed to uncover novel genes and mechanisms in DNA double-strand repair using automated equipment for high-throughput strain engineering, novel assays for detection and monitoring DNA repair, as well as the use of fluorescence microscopy to forward this important research field. 

The project will be performed in collaboration with University of Copenhagen and you will gain experience from working in both research environments.

Responsibilities and qualifications
As a postdoc, your primary tasks will be:

• Design, execute experiments, and interpret the results with the aim of identify key genetic factors and regulatory processes for DNA double-strand break repair.
• Apply findings to develop new models for DNA repair.
• Collaborate with other researchers to promote the research field.
• Publish results in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.
• Participate in an experimental course at MSc level, supervise BSc and MSc student projects, and be co-supervisor for PhD students

We are looking for a candidate with:

• Skills in molecular biology, synthetic biology, yeast genetics, or related fields.
• Strong hands-on experience with microbial cultivation and strain engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
• Skills in fluorescence microscopy,
• Experience with DNA repair research in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is preferred.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Proficiency in English for documentation and communication in a multinational environment. 

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

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 terms of employment 
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 1 year and 10 months.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from: Professor Uffe Mortensen, E-Mail: um@bio.dtu.dk 

You can read more about Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (https://www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/)

You can read more about the Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine at https://www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/ 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 24 March 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:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 
• List of references in your CV – or preferably one or more letters of recommendation

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 Biotechnology and Biomedicine is an important contributor to the areas of biotechnology, food technology, and human and animal health, through the advances we make in research, technology and innovation, and through the training and education of first-class BScs, MScs and PhDs in bioengineering.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 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 13,500 students and 6,000 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.