Mass spectrometry specialist for research position

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher (2-year period) with expertise in mass spectrometry to join our team at the Department of Dermatology at Bispebjerg Hospital. The employment (Postdoc/research associate) is to begin on January 1, 2027. In the team we are using different mass spectrometry techniques to investigate mechanisms in photobiology, and promising tools for new diagnostics, prophylactics, and treatments, in skin cancer. With current projects including measurement of DNA repair products in urine with LC-MS, differentiation between healthy tissue and tumor tissue with rapid evaporation ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS), and the use of Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) to evaluate drug distributions and find biomarkers for skin cancer diagnostics.

You will work on continuous development of LC-MS based methods for analysis of biomarkers, drugs, and compounds with photocarcinogenicity or photoprotective effects from animal and human samples such as skin, tumor, plasma, and urine. You will also assist in the development of MSI methods for skin and tumor samples using Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and Desorption electrospray Ionization (DESI) mass spectrometry imaging platforms.

You will also assist in the formulation of new research questions for future laboratory, pre-clinical, and clinical studies, and be responsible for the preparation of documentation for study approvals and grant proposals. You will perform data analysis and interpretation and present the scientific findings at conferences and in peer-reviewed publications. Furthermore, you will collaborate with other members of the research team and external stakeholders to explore new research questions you will provide guidance to graduate students and other junior researchers on their projects. You will report directly to senior researcher Catharina Lerche.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate would have:

• A Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• A strong background in mass spectrometry with REIMS, MSI, and LC-MS, method development experience.
• Extensive practical knowledge of sample preparation for different biological samples, including cryo-sectioning, homogenization, and matrix application.
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in data analysis software used for LC-MS and MSI experiments (Waters and Thermo)
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in dermatological and photobiology research.
• Proven track record for grant applications.

We offer

You will work on a highly interesting and challenging international project using state-of-the-art instrumentation for LC-MS and MSI. Animal and human samples will be taken at Department of Dermatology, Bispebjerg Hospital, which is the main dermatology center in Denmark with more than 85,000 consultations per year. The department hosts an integrated research facility and provides access to a large patient pool. Our research group features a cross-field collaboration between medical doctors, pharmacists, biotechnicians, and experts in pathology and skin cancer. Working language is English and proficiency in Danish is not required. Some travelling can be expected.

Salary and appointment terms

Salary, pension and terms of employment are in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Regions (Danske Regioner) and the relevant professional organization. The salary depends on background, education, and seniority. Note that candidates coming from abroad may be eligible for tax reductions. The position is open for candidates of all nationalities. The period of employment is two years.

Further information

You are welcome to directly contact Associate Professor Catharina Lerche (catharina.margrethe.lerche@regionh.dk) for further information. You are welcome to send informal inquiries to this e-mail address. However, the full application must be handed in online as described below.

Application

Please apply online until latest November 20th 2026. Incoming applications will be continuously evaluated. Applications must be submitted online through the RegionH job portal following the link "Apply", and should include:

• Application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications
• List of 1-2 academic references (to contact for letter of recommendations)
• A writing sample, e.g., PhD thesis (or draft), thesis chapter, first-authored publication, or similar demonstrating your work and dissemination of it

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.