Postdoctoral Fellowship: Postdoc in Bioprocess Engineering for CO₂-to-Protein — Aarhus University, Denmark

About the Role

The Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering at Aarhus University invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral position in bioprocess engineering, focusing on reactor design and scaling for CO₂-to-protein conversion. The successful candidate will join the research groups of Dr. Lars Angenent and Dr. Lars Ottosen in a collaborative project within the Novo Nordisk Foundation CO₂ Research Center (CORC). The position is expected to start on 1 October 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, and is fixed-term for 2 years and 3 months (until 31 December 2028).

Responsibilities

The postdoc will work closely with another postdoctoral researcher to operate bench-scale (5 L) and pilot-scale (200 L) bioreactors. Tasks include:

• Participating in the design and detailed engineering of modifications to the existing pilot-plant setup.
• Supporting the operation and testing of up-scaled bioreactors.
• Maintaining detailed records of experimental data, process conditions, and system modifications.
• Publishing scientific articles based on research, development, and innovation of the up-scaled microbial electrochemical reactor.
• Presenting findings at conferences.
• Collaborating with a digital-twinning postdoc to model the pilot-plant system.

Requirements

We are looking for candidates with a strong academic background and a passion for sustainable process development. Qualified applicants should have:

• A PhD in anaerobic gas fermentation, bioengineering, or a closely related discipline, with expertise in both anaerobic and aerobic metabolism and operation.
• Experience with operating multi-100 L pilot plants is highly valued.
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams, with strong problem-solving skills, scientific integrity, and a proactive attitude toward research and knowledge sharing.

About the Department

The Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering (BCE) employs approximately 175 people and educates Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students in engineering. Research focuses on living systems, efficient production and transformation of chemicals, materials, and energy, spanning biotechnology, food technology, environmental technology, chemical engineering, and electrochemical engineering. The department collaborates closely with the public sector and industry to ensure real-world impact.

What We Offer

• Access to well-developed research infrastructure, including pilot-scale facilities and state-of-the-art laboratories.
• An interdisciplinary research environment combining chemical engineering, process systems, biotechnology, and Power-to-X technologies.
• Opportunities to collaborate with national and international academic partners and industrial stakeholders.
• A collegial and inclusive workplace with networking activities, knowledge sharing, and a focus on work-life balance.
• Support for international researchers, including relocation services and career counselling for accompanying partners.

Application Details

Place of Work

Gustav Wieds Vej 10D, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. The area of employment is Aarhus University with affiliated institutions.

Contact

For further information, contact Largus Angenent at [email protected].

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 31 July 2026 at 23:59 CEST.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted in English via Aarhus University’s recruitment system. The application must include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans, and a teaching portfolio (if applicable). Shortlisting will be used; selected candidates will be evaluated by an expert assessment committee. Appointment will be in accordance with the Danish collective labour agreement (basic salary steps 4–8). Aarhus University welcomes all applicants and values diversity.

Original vacancy