Postdoctoral Fellowship: Postdoc in Computational Systems Biology of C1-trophic Microorganisms — DTU, Denmark

About the Role

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in computational systems biology to join the Novo Nordisk Foundation Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition (BRIGHT). This multi-year initiative aims to establish industrial routes for essential chemicals in a low-carbon economy by developing robust microbial cell factories that convert CO₂-derived feedstocks into high-volume chemicals. The project spans the entire innovation pipeline, from metabolic design and strain engineering to process design, fermentation, downstream processing, multi-omics analysis, techno-economic validation, and business development.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply cutting-edge computational methods to analyze high-quality multi-omics datasets (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and generate predictive models of metabolism and regulation in non-model microorganisms capable of growth on CO₂ and derived feedstocks.
• Collaborate closely with wet-lab scientists within an interdisciplinary systems biology team, under the supervision of Dr. Stefano Donati.
• Support the research efforts of fellow team members and supervise MSc student projects.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present findings at international conferences.

Qualifications

• A PhD degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
• Professional qualifications and a proven track record of bringing projects to completion.
• Experience in multi-omics data analysis (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and metabolic modelling.
• Experience in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Strong programming skills in R or Python.
• Excellent English language skills and strong interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work in a diverse, multidisciplinary, and highly collaborative team.
• Creative thinking, enthusiasm, and high motivation.

What We Offer

DTU is a leading technical university recognised globally for excellence in research, education, innovation, and scientific advice. You will work in an international environment characterised by collegial respect, academic freedom, and responsibility. The position offers a rewarding and challenging role within a collaborative team dedicated to advancing biosolutions for the green transition.

Salary and Terms of Employment

• Employment is full-time for a period of 2 years.
• Starting date: 1 September 2026 or according to mutual agreement.
• Appointment and salary are based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Supplements may be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff.

About BRIGHT

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition (BRIGHT) is a major initiative based at DTU. It serves as a hub for academic and industrial partners working to unlock the potential of bioproduction. BRIGHT focuses on sustainable materials, microbial foods, and microorganisms for net-zero agriculture, aiming to scale innovative biosolutions that reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.

About DTU

DTU is one of Europe’s leading elite technical universities, with a mission to create value through natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. Founded nearly 200 years ago by Hans Christian Ørsted, DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees, working in an inclusive, stimulating, and informal culture across campuses in Denmark and Greenland.

How to Apply

Submit your complete online application no later than 2 August 2026 at 23:59 Danish time. Applications must be in English and assembled into a single PDF file containing:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates. For further information, please contact Dr. Stefano Donati. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

Original vacancy