Postdoc in online nitrate sensing in aquatic systems - DTU Aqua

Nitrogen pollution is a major environmental challenge, and environmental monitoring and industry (agriculture and aquaculture) require better real‑time tools to monitor nitrate levels and optimize denitrification treatment systems. In some environments the reliability of in situ determination for nitrate using absorption spectroscopy is challenged by considerable varability in the interference by dissolved organic matter absorption. This two year post doc is focused on developing an innovative approach to spectral decomposition to improve nitrate estimates across widely contrasting natural and industrial aquatic environments.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The postdoc will be based at DTU Aqua and play a central role in sampling, laboratory measurements and alorithm developments.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and executing sampling campaigns across marine, freshwater, agricultural and aquaculture systems to characterize nitrate and interfering compounds across seasons and operational conditions.
• Conducting water quality analyses (nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, organic matter) and ensuring high‑quality datasets for algorithm development.
• Processing and interpreting spectral data, to support optimization and validation of machine‑learning algorithms for nitrate quantification.
• Participating in prototype instrument evaluation, including laboratory testing and full‑scale field demonstrations of the performance.
• Contributing to scientific dissemination, including peer‑reviewed publications, conference presentations, and project reporting to the Steering Committee.
• Coordinating collaboration with industry partners and scoping new applications within water quality monitoring.  

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 2 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Colin A Stedmon (cost@aqua.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 28 April 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 
• A summary of experience in conducting field sampling, laboratory measurements using relevant/similar methods and interactions with industry stake holders; and a description of (and reasoning for) suitable algorithms to be used.

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.

The Section for Oceans and Arctic covers a wide research spectrum from oceanography, population ecology, observation technology and the Arctic. The research into oceanography integrates biological, physical and chemical parameters’ interactions in the ocean, ranging from individual plankton to regional seas. We focus on understanding the key processes that govern the structure and function of pelagic food webs, as well as climate and ecosystem interactions. The research in population ecology establishes how processes affecting individuals shape populations and ecosystems.

About DTU Aqua
DTU Aqua – National Institute of Aquatic Resources – works for well-functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes where biodiversity can thrive. Our research, advisory service, and education contribute to the development of a sustainable blue bioeconomy, robust aquatic ecosystems, and reduced effects of climate change. We have a large national and international network and cooperate with research partners, public authorities, industry, and NGOs. We have state-of-the-art research facilities and Denmark’s only ocean- and arctic-going research vessel. The Institute has about 360 employees, one-half being scientific staff, including about 50 PhD students. More than 35 nationalities are represented at the Institute, and we support an equal gender distribution. We are located in Lyngby, Hirtshals, Nykøbing Mors, and Silkeborg and have regular activities in Greenland. Learn more on aqua.dtu.dk

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.