Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant–Microbe Interactions Full-time

Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant–Microbe Interactions

The Plant Molecular Biology section at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics is seeking a highly motivated and ambitious postdoctoral researcher to join a dynamic and international research team. You will play a central role in advancing our understanding of the molecular dialogue between plants and their associated microorganisms, with the long-term goal of contributing to more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.

The research team you will join is coordinating an international program that brings together leading scientists from around the world to investigate beneficial plant–microbe associations and harness their potential for sustainable food production.

Our focus is on uncovering the molecular mechanisms by which plants and microbes interact—ranging from early recognition events to colonization strategies. Within this framework, the advertised postdoctoral project is specifically focused on plant engineering for improved symbiotic associations with soil microbes. This knowledge forms the foundation for the development of novel solutions to reduce the need for chemical inputs and improve crop productivity, particularly in smallholder farming systems.

Your contributions will directly support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to food security, sustainability, and climate resilience.

Expected Start Date and Duration of Employment

This is a fixed-term position from 1 October 2026 to end on 31 March 2028.

Job Description

• Conduct independent and collaborative research into the molecular and genetic basis of plant–microbe interactions, with a particular emphasis on beneficial symbioses.
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments using molecular biology, plant tissue culture, and omics-based approaches.
• Apply plant genetics and genomics to study mechanisms underlying plant–associated bacteria.
• Collaborate with international partners and contribute to joint research efforts within the program.
• Present your work at group meetings, conferences, and in high-quality scientific publications.
• Contribute to the supervision of MSc and PhD students, fostering an inclusive and supportive research environment.

Your Profile

• You hold a PhD in Molecular Biology, Plant Biology, or a related field.
• You have strong expertise in molecular and genetic techniques, with prior experience in plant genetics and molecular biology.
• Experience working with plant–microbe systems will be considered an advantage.
• Additional expertise in genome editing, transcriptomics, or advanced microscopy will also be an asset.
• You are curious, creative, and capable of driving projects independently while thriving in collaborative research settings.
• You have excellent communication skills and are fluent in English, both spoken and written.
• You are motivated to contribute to applied outcomes of fundamental research in support of sustainable agriculture.

Who We Are

The postdoctoral researcher will be affiliated with the Plant Molecular Biology section at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, where the research program is coordinated.

The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics is part of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and encompasses research within Plant Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, RNA Biology and Innovation, Protein Science, Cellular Health, Intervention and Nutrition. The department currently hosts 158 full-time scientific staff and 83 PhD students. It also delivers two degree programs: Molecular Biology and Molecular Medicine, with an annual intake of ~120 students.

What We Offer

• A full-time position.
• A role in an ambitious, research-intensive environment with strong international collaborations.
• The opportunity to pursue high-impact research in plant–microbe interactions with both fundamental and applied dimensions.
• A collaborative and respectful work culture that values diversity, creativity, and professional growth.

Place of Work and Area of Employment

The place of work is Universitetsbyen 81, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. The area of employment is Aarhus University with affiliated institutions.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact: Professor Simona Radutoiu, radutoiu@mbg.au.dk

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 14 July 2026.

Application Procedure

Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self.

Formalities and Salary Range

Natural Sciences refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Guidelines for applicants can be found here. Appointment shall be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities. Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Associations.

Questions about the Position?

Simona Radutoiu Professor, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics – Plant Molecular Biology +4587155498 radutoiu@mbg.au.dk

Questions about Application and Process?

Nat-Tech Administrative Centre – Nat-Tech HR +4520716487 nat-tech.HR.team1@au.dk

Deadline: Tuesday 14 Jul 2026 at 23:59 CEST