PhD Fellowship in Analytical Chemistry and Metabolomics – University of Copenhagen, Denmark

The Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports invites applications for a fully funded PhD fellowship in Analytical Chemistry, specializing in metabolomics and infant gut microbiome analysis. The position is part of the research project “AROMA – Aromatic lactic acids during infancy: production, metabolism, and function,” which is supported by the Independent Research Fund Denmark.

Project Details:

• Start Date: Expected to be 01.12.2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.
• Location: Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen.

Project Overview:
The AROMA project aims to understand in greater detail the gut microbial production, host-microbial metabolism, and function of aromatic lactic acids during infancy. Previous work has shown that Bifidobacterium species produce aromatic lactic acids in the gut of infants, which may affect immune function via two different host receptors. The project involves conducting an infant cohort study and developing liquid chromatography mass spectrometry-based metabolomics methods to quantify aromatic lactic acids in bacterial cultures and collected infant faeces, blood, and urine samples. The candidate will also integrate microbiome-metabolomics data and perform mechanistic in vitro experiments in immune cells, leading to the writing of scientific publications.

Qualifications:
Applicants should have a degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field, with experience in lab work and a strong interest in metabolomics and the infant gut microbiome.

What We Offer:
The position is available in the Microbiome & Metabolomics Research Group at the Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen. The research group conducts human cohort and intervention studies, applying cutting-edge metabolomics and microbiomics, and collaborates with leading microbiome researchers and immunology researchers to elucidate host-microbial cross-talk.

Application Procedure:
To apply, submit your application online by clicking APPLY NOW below. The application deadline is September 17, 2023, 23:59 + GMT+2.

Your application must include:

1. Motivated letter of application (max. one page).
2. Curriculum vitae, including information about your education, experience, language skills, and other relevant skills.
3. Original diplomas for Bachelor of Science or Master of Science, along with transcripts of records in the original language. Include an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, provide a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor.
4. Publication list (if possible).
5. Reference letters (if available).

Terms of Employment:

• Employment as a PhD fellow is full-time and for a maximum of 3 years.
• Successful applicants must enroll as PhD students at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen.

Contact Information:
For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact Associate Professor Henrik Munch Roager (hero@nexs.ku.dk) or Assistant Professor Giorgia La Barbera (glb@nexs.ku.dk).

Learn More:
For general information about PhD study at the Faculty of SCIENCE, visit the PhD School’s website.

Note:
Ensure timely submission, as applications received after the deadline will not be considered.