PhD Fellowship in NanoGeoBiology at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Summary

The Geobiology Section at the Globe Institute, University of Copenhagen, invites applications for a PhD fellowship in NanoGeoBiology, focusing on tautomeric proton transfer in DNA base pairs. This project is a collaborative initiative between partners in China and Denmark, funded by the Sino Danish Center in Beijing. The successful candidate will conduct research in both Copenhagen and China, utilizing advanced STM/AFM techniques to image hydrogen bonds and investigate proton transfer in DNA.

Designation

PhD Fellow

Scholarship Details

Research Area

The primary research focus is on NanoGeoBiology, specifically investigating “Tautomeric proton transfer in DNA base pairs.” This involves imaging hydrogen bonds in Watson-Crick AT and GC base pairs at the single hydrogen bond level using advanced STM/AFM techniques, and using these measurements alongside spectroscopic methods to look for evidence of tautomeric proton transfer in GC pairs.

Location

• Primary Location: Copenhagen, Denmark (Globe Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen)
• Collaborative Location: Approximately one year will be spent in China (in one or more stays), conducting research and teaching.

Eligibility/Qualification

Qualifications Needed for the Regular PhD Programme:

• Completion of a degree programme equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project.
• Candidates should have a background in Nano-Science, experimental physics, or organic analytical chemistry.

Desired Professional Qualifications:

• Relevant publications (if available)
• Relevant work experience
• Other relevant professional activities
• A curious mindset with a strong interest in Nano-Science
• Good language skills (English)

Scholarship Description

This three-year full-time PhD fellowship is designed for candidates who already possess an education equivalent to a relevant Danish master’s degree. The project is part of a significant international collaboration, offering a dynamic and international research environment. The candidate will be expected to:

• Carry out an independent research project under supervision.
• Complete PhD courses corresponding to approximately 30 ECTS.
• Actively participate in research environments in both Copenhagen and Beijing, China.
• Engage in teaching and knowledge dissemination activities.
• Write scientific papers for high-impact journals.
• Write and defend a PhD thesis based on the project.

The position offers creative and stimulating working conditions within a group focused on the origin of life, approaching the question from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives using modern laboratory facilities.

How to Apply

Your application, including all attachments, must be in English and submitted electronically via the ‘APPLY NOW’ link provided below. Please ensure your application includes:

• A motivated letter of application (maximum one page).
• Curriculum vitae (CV) with information on education, experience, language skills, and other relevant skills.
• Original diplomas for Bachelor or Master and transcripts of records in the original language. If not in English or Danish, an authorized English translation is required. If not yet completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript or a written statement from the institution/supervisor is acceptable.
• Publication list (if available).
• Reference letters (if available).

General information about PhD study at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences is available at https://healthsciences.ku.dk/phd/.

For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the principal supervisor: Professor Tue Hassenkam, Globe Institute, tue.hassenkam@sund.ku.dk, Direct phone: +4526552030.

Last Date for Apply

7 October 2026, 23:59 CEST

Apply Link

APPLY NOW