Postdoc Position for development of RNA design software Part-time

Postdoc Position for Development of RNA Design Software

Applications are invited for a fix-termed 2-year postdoc position in the field of RNA design at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark. The position is part of the project RIBOTICS (RNA Origami Technology in Cell Systems) funded by an Advanced Grant from the European Research Council (ERC). The intended starting date is 01st September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

In the Andersen lab for Biomolecular Design, we are experts in designing DNA, RNA and proteins to create nanoscale devices for applications in biotechnology and medicine. The lab invented the RNA origami method and have developed basic algorithms and software for RNA design. However, there is a great need to develop new software for the design of advanced RNA origami robots that can sense, compute and actuate. In the recently funded RIBOTICS project, the lab aims to develop RNA origami robots for cell factories (yeast production strains) for improved synthesis of valuable proteins and biochemicals. The project of this position aims to develop computational methods for design of modular RNA origami robots. The project includes the following tasks:

• Develop computer-aided design software for modular construction of switchable RNA nanostructures.
• Develop databases for RNA modules for automated building of atomistic models.
• Develop multistate sequence design algorithm for rational design of RNA switches.
• Develop database of cell type specific constraints for incorporation in RNA design algorithms.

The RIBOTICS project involves a team of 3 postdocs and 3 PhD students, who will work on design, characterization, and experimental verification of several RNA systems that can regulate gene expression, control enzyme proximity, sense product yields, and do molecular computations for feedback control. The successful candidate will work in close collaboration with the RIBOTICS team and will be part of a vibrant research environment at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, where the lab is located.

Your qualifications:

• Applicants must hold a PhD degree in computer science, bioinformatics or similar.
• The applicant must be proficient in programming in Python and Java script.
• Have strong cooperation and communication skills.
• Have good command of the English language, both spoken and written.
• Be independent and capable of assisting younger students in their research projects.

The Andersen lab for Biomolecular Design has long-standing expertise in designing DNA, RNA and proteins to create nanoscale devices for applications in biotechnology and medicine. The lab is located at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center which combines expertise from the disciplines including physics, chemistry, molecular biology and medicine to carry out world class interdisciplinary research in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The center gives access to a broad range of infrastructure, tools and expertise. The lab is part of the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Aarhus University, which is a vibrant, collaborative, and international research community that includes 142 full-time scientific staff and 85 PhD students. The department is committed to fostering an inspiring and inclusive work environment. Aarhus University offers a wide range of services to support international researchers and their families, including relocation assistance and career counselling for accompanying partners. English is the primary language used for internal communication and teaching, and international candidates are not required to learn Danish.

The department offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment with many industrial, national and international collaborators. The city of Aarhus is the second largest in Denmark located on the eastern coast of the peninsula of Jutland. Aarhus offers a rich cultural life with its many international students and cultural events. It is easily accessible from major European cities either by train or plane. Furthermore, the workplace offers:

• a well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories and access to shared equipment including world-class cryo-EM and FACS core facilities.
• a research climate encouraging lively, open and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
• a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities
• a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.

The place of work is Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark, and the area of employment is Aarhus University with related departments. As of 1 August 2026, iNANO's educational and research activities will be transferred to the faculty's departments. Consequently, your employment will as of that date be with a department.

For further information, please contact: Professor Ebbe Sloth Andersen, +45 4117 8619, esa@inano.au.dk.