Postdoc in Microbial Single-Cell Genomics and Transcriptomics

We are inviting applications for a full-time post-doctoral position of 24 months in the Social Systems Microbiology research group at the Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen.

The focus of the project will be on single-cell transcriptomics and genomics of prokaryotes and on optimising protocols to acquire extrachromosomal elements and their transcripts.

The project the postdoc will work on is motivated by understanding phenotypic heterogeneity in microorganisms: how and why genetically identical cells form distinct phenotypic subpopulations, and what mechanisms give rise to this diversity. You will join an exploratory, method-driven project in this area, funded by the Villum Foundation. The work combines wet-lab method development with sequencing and data analysis across a range of bacteria and archaea. The project is basic research and open-ended by design, and you will have considerable freedom to shape how methods are developed and applied. Therefore, we are looking for a curious, driven and creative researcher who is motivated by both method development and discovery.

Your tasks

• Cultivate and work with a diverse set of bacteria and archaea
• Develop and optimise protocols for isolating and sequencing extrachromosomal DNA and associated transcripts from bacteria and archaea
• Apply and adapt single-cell transcriptomic and genomic approaches to prokaryotes
• Quantify DNA and RNA using qPCR and digital PCR, and perform bulk DNA and RNA sequencing
• Analyse sequencing data, publish results and contribute to the group's scientific environment

Your profile

• PhD in microbiology, microbial biotechnology, molecular biology or a related field
• Hands-on experience with molecular methods and DNA and/or RNA sequencing library preparation
• Basic bioinformatic skills for analysing sequencing data (e.g. in R or Python)
• Works independently while collaborating well in a team
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Experience with prokaryotic single-cell omics methods is a strong advantage
• Experience with method development, troubleshooting and adapting protocols is a strong advantage
• Experience with cultivating diverse bacteria and/or archaea is an advantage

We offer
An international and collaborative research group studying the molecular biology, ecology and evolution of bacterial interactions, embedded in the Section of Microbiology with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on a great working environment. We value ambitious science as much as a friendly, team-oriented workplace.

You will join:

• A supportive, international team where ideas are shared openly
• A strong network of international and national collaborators within and beyond microbiology
• An active social environment with a culture of helping each other succeed
• A setting that encourages you to develop your own research ideas

The postdoc’s duties will include research within Microbial Single-Cell Genomics and Transcriptomics as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.

Further information on the Department is linked at https://www1.bio.ku.dk. Inquiries about the position can be made to Associate Professor Jonas Stenløkke Madsen (jsmadsen@bio.ku.dk).

The position is open from 01-02-2027 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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 accord 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.

You can read more about salary levels in the state sector www.loenoverblik.dk (in Danish).

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

Please include

• A cover letter (Max. 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Complete publication list

The deadline for applications is 19-11-2026, 23:59 GMT +1.

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/.

Interviews will be held week 50-51