Postdoc Position in Biology

We are looking for a talented, highly motivated and creative scientist who is interested in exploring questions at the interface between physics and biology. The project is part of the research project “Universal Biology”, led by Professor Kunihiko Kaneko (KK) financed by Novo Nordisk Foundation. It aims at uncovering universal characteristics and general laws in life systems and formulate basic theory, in particular in origin-of-life, adaptation, development, evolution and ecosystem with the spirit of theoretical physics, by focusing on consistency between hierarchical levels – molecules, cells, organisms, and ecosystem. ( For more details of the project, please refer  to https://nbi.ku.dk/english/research/biocomplexity/universal-biology-group/ or KK’s lectures uploaded in youtube, or KK’s publications in google-scholar page ).   The ideal candidate will have a strong theoretical physics background, in particular statistical physics and dynamical systems. Previous knowledge of biology is not necessarily required, although high motivation and passion to understand a life system with willingness to learn is needed.  Our research project is theoretical with simulations and possible collaboration with experimental groups.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within Biocomplexity as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.

Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the position can be made to [head of department].

The position is open from 01 April 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.  The duration of the position two years with a possible extension (but maximally up to October 2027) .

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans: Include description of current and past research (1-2 pages)
• Reseach plan on Universal Biology, with your vision based on your research experiences:  Proposal within one or few themes in the following;  (i) protocell/origin-of-life, e.g., theory for genetic takeover (ii) cellular adaptation or memory (iii) dimensional reduction in development, evolution, and ecosystem (iv) direction and constraint in macro-evolution (v) evolution and resilience of ecosystems (vi) dynamic cognition or memory; Or proposition of novel topics or theories for universal biology is also welcome  (1~2 pages)
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 1 December 2024, 23:59 GMT +1. (Wintertime in Denmark extends from last Sunday in October to last Sunday i March)

Questions regarding the position can be e-mailed to Kunihiko Kaneko at  kunihiko.kaneko@nbi.ku.dk.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.