Postdoc in membrane protein structural biology at Department of Biomedical Sciences Full-time NEW

Postdoc Position

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen

We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic postdoc for a 3-year position, to commence September 1st or shortly thereafter. The position is funded by the Lundbeck Foundation and focuses on the structure and molecular interaction of tight junctions and viral glycoproteins. The successful candidate will join the Prentø group at the Department of Biomedical Sciences.

The Prentø group studies membrane protein organization and host–pathogen interactions with a strong emphasis on structural biology in native-like environments. We focus on how membrane proteins assemble into higher-order complexes and how these architectures regulate biological function.

Our work combines biochemistry, membrane reconstitution, and structural biology, including lipid nanodiscs and cryo-electron microscopy, to resolve protein structures in physiologically relevant contexts.

This project focuses on using nanodisc-reconstituted claudins to study their interactions with viruses in vitro. A central aspect of the work will be the application of nanobodies to stabilize specific claudin conformations and claudin–virus complexes, facilitating detailed biochemical and structural characterization.

Your tasks will include:

• Expression and purification of claudin proteins and relevant viral components
• Selection and application of nanobodies to stabilize claudin conformations and complexes
• Reconstitution into lipid nanodiscs and other membrane mimetics
• In vitro reconstitution and analysis of claudin–virus interactions
• Biochemical and biophysical characterization of protein–virus–nanobody assemblies
• Preparation of samples for cryo-EM structural analysis
• Optimization of systems to interrogate claudin-mediated viral interactions in membrane environments

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the following competencies and experience:

• You have a PhD in life science, preferable virology
• You are highly experienced working with antibodies and nanobodies
• You are highly experienced in molecular cloning and protein characterization
• You have experience working with viral glycoproteins, preferably for positive-sense RNA viruses
• You have at least one first author primary paper. Publications or submissions in journals with predatory characteristics will not be considered and should be excluded from your list of publications
• Proficient communication skills and ability to work in teams
• Excellent English skills written and spoken

Desirable experience and skills:

• Experience in lipid nanodisc and membrane mimetics
• Experience in structural biology and cryo-EM

The place of employment is at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include modern laboratories and core facilities.

The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week. The position is a fixed-term position limited to a period of 3 years. The starting date is 1st September 2026.

Salary, pension and other conditions of employment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant organisation. Currently, the monthly salary starts at 39,700 DKK/approx. 5,313 EUR (April 2026 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18.07 % to your pension fund.

Foreign and Danish applicants may be eligible for tax reductions, if they hold a PhD degree and have not lived in Denmark the last 10 years.

The position is covered by the Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities 2025.

For further information please contact Associate Professor Jannick Prentø by email.

Application procedure: Your online application must be submitted in English by clicking 'Apply now' below. Furthermore, your application must include the following documents/attachments – all in PDF format:

1. Motivated letter of application (max. one page).
2. CV incl. education, work/research experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position.
3. A certified/signed copy of a) PhD certificate and b) Master of Science certificate. If the PhD is not completed, a written statement from the supervisor will do.
4. List of publications.

Deadline for applications: 26 May 2026, 23.59pm CET

The applicant will be assessed according to the Ministerial Order no. 242 of 13 March 2012 on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities. Interviews are expected to be held end June or start July.

The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background.