Ph.d. position in Protein Design for Cancer Research

The Protein Research Group at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense is seeking a skilled doctoral candidate (DC, PhD student) to join our team. This role is pivotal in supporting the European Doctoral Network MIPrecise for development of novel affinity-binders for high-sensitivity proteomics and biomedical applications in cancer.

This PhD position is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the international MIPrecise research project in a highly collaborative and dynamic working environment at SDU, Odense, DK.

Project supervisor: Professor Ole Nørregaard Jensen

Workplace: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark

The position is for 3 years and is available from February 1, 2026.

Role and Responsibilities:

• Use protein design concepts and deep-learning computational methods to develop novel protein-based affinity-binders for detection and quantification of post-translational modifications in proteins and peptides.
• Produce, purify and test selected designer proteins for enrichment of cancer biomarkers and to understand cellular signalling pathways involving post-translational modifications, including methylated and phosphorylated protein species.
• Complete coursework (30 ECTS) and contribute to workshops and training events within the MIPrecise consortium.
• Visit collaborating research groups at Malmö University (S), University of Pavia (I), ReSyn Biosciences (RSA) and Proteome Sciences (D) for advanced training.

What We Offer:

• Cutting-Edge Research : Join one of Europe's leading mass spectrometry and proteomics research groups.
• Advanced Methodologies : Develop novel computational and experimental techniques to improve protein and proteome analysis in cancer and cell signaling research.
• Collaborative Environment : Be part of our interdisciplinary team with protein biochemistry, bioinformatics, and mass spectrometry expertise.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities : Access SDU UCloud high performance computer for protein structure prediction and analysis. take advantage of our advanced laboratory facilities and mass spectrometry instruments for testing of novel designer-binders.
• International Exposure : Present your findings for MIPrecise partners, participate in conferences and collaborate with experienced researchers.
• Benefit from competitive salary and social benefits , including health coverage and support for international candidates (relocation, visa assistance).

Your Academic Profile:

• Qualifications: An MSc degree (or equivalent experience) in computational protein science, biochemistry or molecular cell biology with a strong component of computational biology and/or protein 3D structure prediction and analysis.
• Experience in computational and experimental protein science: Candidates with experience in protein 3D structure analysis, protein expression and characterization will be prioritized.
• Programming Skills: Working knowledge in standard scripting languages such as R and Python is recommended.
• Further Technologies: Experience in protein 3D structure prediction and analysis by AlphaFold, RosettaFold, or similar tools is recommended.

Personal Competencies:

• Independence and Creativity: Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills with a passion for scientific research
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary research projects and collaborate with a diverse and international team of scientists and students.
• Flexibility: Willingness to take on various tasks and adapt to new challenges. Mobility is a requirement as part of this international research project.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in the English language (speaking, reading, writing) and excellent communications and presentation skills.

Contact information:

Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

Employment Start: February 1, 2026, or soon thereafter

Contact : Professor Ole N. Jensen,

Location:

University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark

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Application, salary etc.

Følgende tilføjes

Benefits

Marie Sklodowska-Curie PhDs are paid a highly competitive salary according to the Marie-Curie programme regulations composed of Living allowance: (multiplied by a country coefficient) – corresponds to the Monthly Gross salary, a mobility allowance (private mobility related costs) and Family allowance (if applicable). The net salary calculation depends on the employment rules and conditions in each country. The total allowances received for DC's salary are subject to tax and social contributions (employer's and employee's).

Residency Restriction

The applicant can be of any nationality but at the date of recruitment should not have resided in Denmark for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment and not have carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Denmark.

Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account.

How to Apply:

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

• A motivation letter that articulates how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of this role (max. 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae, including a detailed description of your experimental and computational skills (max. 2 pages)
• List of publications (if relevant)
• Copy of BSc and MSc diplomas and transcript of grades/notes
• Two letters of reference
• Contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) for at least 2 referees who can vouch for your skills.