Postdoc Position in Microbial Metabolic Engineering & Power-to-X Feedstocks at DTU BRIGHT, Denmark

The Biotechnology Research Institute for the Green Transition (BRIGHT) at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is inviting applications for a 2-year Postdoctoral position in Systematic Characterization and Improvement of Bacterial Cell Factories. This role focuses on optimizing microbial performance using next-generation, sustainable Power-to-X (P2X) feedstocks.

Job Overview Table

Research Area & Project Summary

This project sits at the critical intersection of metabolic engineering and sustainable biotechnology. The primary goal is to characterize and improve microbial cell factories capable of using miscible Power-to-X (P2X) feedstocks—such as C1 (methanol, formate) and C2 (ethanol, acetate) carbon sources—to advance the shift away from fossil-based chemical production.

You will work within an integrated cycle combining systematic phenotypic characterization, multi-omics data integration, and rational strain engineering to enhance microbial productivity and fitness on sustainable feedstocks.

Key Responsibilities & Job Description

• Cultivate and analyze microbial species grown on miscible P2X feedstocks (C1 and C2 carbon sources) to evaluate growth performance and physiological responses.
• Utilize multi-omics approaches (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) to gain detailed mechanistic insights into microbial pathways.
• Integrate phenotypic and multi-omics data to pinpoint metabolic bottlenecks and select candidates for rational strain engineering.
• Perform targeted genetic modifications on non-model bacterial species to boost substrate conversion efficiency.
• Validate and evaluate engineered strains within controlled bioreactor setups.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams and present findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals and international scientific conferences.

Eligibility & Qualifications

To be eligible for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Formal Requirements

• Must hold a PhD degree in microbiology, systems biology, metabolic engineering, biotechnology, or a related field (or have a submitted and accepted PhD thesis prior to starting).

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Hands-on experience with microbial cultivation, growth characterization, and bioreactor operations.
• Demonstrated experience in genome editing and genetic manipulation of non-model bacterial species.
• Proficiency with one or more omics technologies (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) along with data analysis workflows.
• Strong analytical and programming skills (e.g., in Python or R) for multi-omics data processing and integration.
• Excellent collaborative mindset and strong oral and written communication skills in English.

Salary & Employment Terms

The position is a full-time appointment for a duration of 2 years. Salary and appointment terms are structured in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and DTU salary standards for scientific staff, with possibilities to negotiate salary supplements based on qualifications.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their application online through the DTU recruitment portal. All application documents must be submitted in English as a single PDF file.

Your single PDF package must include:

• Cover letter detailing your motivation and background
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Academic diplomas (MSc and PhD certificates)
• Complete list of publications
• Contact details of two professional references

Last Date to Apply

The closing date for applications is October 27, 2026, at 23:59 Danish time. Late or incomplete applications will not be evaluated.

Application Link

To view the official posting and submit your application, please visit the portal below:

Apply Online for Postdoc in Bacterial Cell Factories at DTU