Two Postdoc positions in Cardiometabolic (Electro-)Physiology at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Full-time

Postdoctoral Researchers in Cardiometabolic Physiology

The Lubberding group at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, is looking for two highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to lead translational research projects aimed at understanding the role of ion channels in cardiometabolic physiology commencing on the 16th of November 2026 or soon thereafter. The positions are for 1 and 2 years.

Our research and what we offer

In the Lubberding group we aim to find novel treatment strategies for cardiometabolic disease. We do this by investigating the molecular mechanisms of cardiometabolic disease and probing possible novel targets for the treatment of these diseases, with a focus on ion channels.

Our work combines in vitro and in vivo model systems, human tissue analysis, hormone secretion assays, electrophysiology, (live) imaging, molecular biology, -omics, and clinical data to understand the dual role of ion channels in cardiac and metabolic physiology. We are also setting up a small clinical trial.

We are a dynamic and international team with a strong focus on collaboration, engagement and curiosity. We actively promote teamwork and knowledge sharing to encourage a positive, supportive and inclusive environment.

The Lubberding group is part of the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen, with state-of-the-art laboratories located on the Panum campus in the Northern Campus area, close to the city center of Copenhagen.

The project and your tasks

Cardiometabolic diseases, including primary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and its cardiovascular complications, pose an escalating threat to global health. The function of the heart, as well as the function of the endocrine tissues important for maintaining our blood glucose, use ion channels to perform their function. The projects will address the role of a particular ion channel in human cardiometabolic physiology, with an emphasis on blood glucose control.

Your project-related tasks may include:

• Analysis of large human datasets
• Preparation of clinical trial, incl. recruitment of participants
• In vitro cell and ex vivo islet experiments, including hormone secretion assays and live imaging
• Murine islet isolation and in vivo experimentation
• Electrophysiology (patch-clamp)
• Functional drug screening

You will work in a collaborative environment where we combine functional assays in the wet-lab with analysis of human tissue and clinical data in order to understand the role of particular ion channels in cardiometabolic health and disease and how to target them.

Your general tasks as a postdoc at our faculty:

• Engage actively in teaching activities within physiology, molecular biology or pharmacology
• Conduct independent research projects and collaborate within research teams
• Disseminate research findings at scientific conferences and meetings
• Carry out supervising and mentoring activities
• Write scientific papers

Who we are looking for

Essential experience and skills:

• You have (or are about to get) a PhD in life science or medical science, preferably in the field of cardiac or metabolic (electro-)physiology
• You have a strong theoretical background in cell biology and human physiology
• You have documented wet-lab experience and/or proficiency in analysis of large datasets
• You have theoretical knowledge and practical experience with electrophysiology and/or pharmacology and/or metabolic methodologies in humans (e.g. glucose clamps)
• You have a collaborative mindset with strong communication skills and an ability to work well in teams
• You are fluent in written and spoken English
• You have strong analytical skills
• You are good at working independently and driving a project
• You are responsible, reliable and flexible
• You enjoy international and diverse workplaces

Terms of employment

The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week.

The positions are fixed-term positions for 1 and 2 years. The starting date is 16th of November 2026 or after agreement.

Salary and other terms and conditions of appointment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant professional organization. There will be an opportunity to negotiate a supplement based on qualifications.

Depending on seniority, the monthly salary starts at approximately 39,950 DKK/approx. 5,340 EUR (August 2026 level). In addition, the employer will pay 18,07% in pension.

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

Candidates from abroad may be eligible to reduced tax payment, according to the Special Tax Scheme for Researchers. More information about this can be found here: Tax – University of Copenhagen

Questions

For further information please contact Tenure-Track Assistant Professor Anniek Lubberding (alubberding@sund.ku.dk).

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: September 20th 2026, 23.59pm CET

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

The further process

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the hiring committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an unbiased assessor. Once the assessment work has been completed each applicant has the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that relates to the applicant him/herself.

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

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 in week 42.

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