Job for Researchers: Associate Professor in Insect Nutrition and Production — Aarhus University, Denmark

About the Role

Aarhus University, Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, invites applications for a position as Associate Professor in Insect Nutrition and Production. The expected start date is 1 January 2027. This full-time position is based within the Monogastric Nutrition research group at the AU Viborg campus (Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele).

Key Responsibilities

• Build and lead an externally funded, interdisciplinary research group in insect nutrition and production, collaborating with national and international partners.
• Lead research on nutrient requirements to optimise production efficiency and resource use in industrial insect systems, with emphasis on Tenebrio molitor and Hermetia illucens.
• Investigate the potential of different insect species for industrial production based on sustainable or circular biomasses and byproducts.
• Conduct research-based advisory work for authorities, including risk assessment of substrates to support regulatory and policy decisions.
• Develop and apply methods to monitor metabolism and production performance in collaboration with industry partners.
• Support the strategic development of insects as a growing research area within the department.
• Teach and supervise students at bachelor, master, and PhD levels, as well as supervising technical staff in your area of expertise.

Your Profile

Qualifications for the associate professor level require postdoctoral training or equivalent employment as a researcher with a relevant research profile and a strong scientific publication record. The successful candidate must have:

• A background in entomology and experience in insect nutrition relevant to industrial production.
• The ability to conduct independent, well-organised research and work as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Documented teaching qualifications at a high international level.
• Experience with project management.
• Fulfilment of Aarhus University’s academic criteria for appointment as associate professor.

What We Offer

• Well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories, access to shared equipment, and animal experimental facilities.
• An informal, multicultural research environment with high professionalism, close collaboration, and networking activities.
• A workplace characterised by equality, good work-life balance, and open discussions across research fields.
• The opportunity to solve tasks of great importance for society and the agricultural sector.

About the Department

The Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences is known for skilled, innovative, interdisciplinary research with high international impact. The department performs world-class research contributing solutions to essential societal challenges within the green transition, food production, and veterinary medicine. Activities form the basis for research-based public sector consultancy and degree programmes in animal science and veterinary medicine. The department offers a lively, engaged, and innovative learning and study environment, closely integrated with the research environment, and features advanced animal experimental facilities and strong national/international networks.

How to Apply

The application must be submitted in English via Aarhus University’s recruitment system (accessed through the job advertisement on the university’s website). Include: a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans, information on research activities, a teaching portfolio, and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Shortlisting will be used; the head of department selects candidates for evaluation after the deadline. All applicants will be notified within six weeks whether their application has been sent to an expert assessment committee. The deadline for applications is 6 August 2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Appointment will be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Salary depends on seniority. Aarhus University welcomes all applicants and values equality and diversity. Applicants are encouraged to specify periods of leave without research activities to be subtracted from the span of the scientific career during evaluation.

Contact Information

For further information about the position, please contact:
Head of Section, Professor Jan V. Nørgaard
Phone: +45 5071 8795
Email: [email protected]

For questions about the application process, please contact:
Nat-Tech HR Team 2
Phone: +45 9352 2463
Email: [email protected]

Original vacancy