About the Position

The Department of Food Science (DTU Food) invites applications for a PhD scholarship in Reproductive Toxicology, focusing on mammalian testis biology and its relevance to next-generation risk assessment of chemicals. This interdisciplinary project aims to provide novel insights into species-specific cellular functions and advance the development of alternative testing methods with high predictive capacity. The work holds immense importance for understanding testicular androgen synthesis and its susceptibility to endocrine disruptors, contributing to both basic research and applications in drug design, toxicity testing, and regulatory frameworks.

As a PhD candidate, you will work within a multidisciplinary team, employing state-of-the-art methodologies such as rodent in vivo studies, transcriptomics, histology, molecular biology, and advanced cell-based assays. You will contribute to translational approaches to bridge animal data with human relevance, advancing chemical testing and regulation.

Key Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Conduct in-depth histological and molecular characterization of cells and tissues.
• Participate in in-utero rat toxicity studies and perform downstream analyses.
• Design and execute transcriptomics experiments, including bioinformatics analysis.
• Collaborate with international partners (e.g., research stay in France for bioinformatics training).
• Facilitate the translation of research findings into alternative testing methods for next-generation risk assessment.
• Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at local, national, and international conferences.
• Complete coursework (30 ECTS) required for the PhD program and write a doctoral thesis.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a two-year Master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in a relevant field.
• Demonstrate strong English language skills (verbal and written).
• Have previous experience with laboratory work, such as cell culture, molecular techniques, and/or animal studies.
• Possess strong organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with bioinformatics or omics technologies (e.g., transcriptomics).
• Familiarity with toxicity testing and molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.

What We Offer

DTU Food is internationally recognized for its research, education, and innovation. As part of our team, you will benefit from:

• A highly rewarding and challenging position in an international, interdisciplinary research environment.
• A structured PhD program with continuous academic guidance from supervisors.
• Opportunities for international collaboration, including a research placement abroad (3-5 months).
• Competitive salary based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.
• Access to DTU’s comprehensive support services for PhD candidates, including seminars on relocation and integration in Denmark.

Salary and Terms

• Employment is for a fixed term of three years.
• Salary will be in line with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations agreement.
• The starting date is Spring 2025, to be mutually agreed upon.

Application Process

Your complete online application must be submitted by 17 January 2025 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file containing:

1. A cover letter explaining your motivation for applying.
2. Curriculum vitae (CV).
3. Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English), including an official description of the grading scale.
4. A list of 2–3 references with contact details.

Further Information
For more details about the position, please contact Prof. Terje Svingen.