Two Postdoctoral Researchers in Proteomics, Genome Stability and PTM Biology Full-time

Two Postdoctoral Researchers in Proteomics, Genome Stability and PTM Biology

Applications are invited for two Postdoctoral Researcher positions at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG), Aarhus University, Denmark.

The positions are available in the Nielsen Laboratory, which investigates how post-translational modification (PTM) networks regulate protein function, genome stability, and cellular decision-making. The laboratory builds on internationally recognized expertise in regulatory proteomics, ADP-ribosylation biology, and mass spectrometry-based technology development.

Postdoctoral position #1 is funded through a recently awarded grant from the Danish Cancer Society (Kræftens Bekæmpelse) and focuses on uncovering novel mechanisms regulating PARP1 function and ADP-ribosylation signalling in genome maintenance and cancer biology. Building on recent discoveries, the project aims to understand how regulatory protein states influence DNA repair and responses to PARP inhibitor therapy.

Postdoctoral position #2 focuses on developing next-generation proteomics technologies, including quantitative PTM analysis, mass spectrometry method development, data-independent acquisition (DIA) strategies, laboratory automation, and scalable proteomics workflows.

Both positions are initially available for two years with the possibility of extension. The expected start date is October 1st, 2026, or soon thereafter. We are seeking ambitious and highly motivated researchers who are excited by the opportunity to contribute to an internationally competitive research programme at the interface of proteomics technology development, regulatory protein biology, and cancer research.

The successful candidates will join a growing research programme focused on understanding how regulatory protein states control cellular function. Our research combines state-of-the-art mass spectrometry, quantitative proteomics, post-translational modification analysis and mechanistic cell biology to uncover fundamental principles governing protein regulation in health and disease.

The two positions offer complementary research opportunities:

Postdoc position #1 – Cancer Biology and PARP1 Regulation (Danish Cancer Society funded)

This project focuses on understanding how PARP1-dependent ADP-ribosylation regulates genome maintenance and cellular responses to DNA damage. The successful candidate will combine proteomics, molecular biology and mechanistic cell biology approaches to uncover new regulatory mechanisms with relevance for cancer therapy and PARP inhibitor response.

Postdoc position #2 – Proteomics Technology Development

This project focuses on developing next-generation analytical approaches for quantitative PTM analysis. Areas of interest include ADP-ribosylation proteomics, DIA-based PTM analysis, large-scale proteomics workflows, laboratory automation and development of innovative LC-MS/MS methodologies.

The primary responsibilities for both positions include:

• Designing and driving independent research projects
• Developing and applying advanced quantitative proteomics workflows
• Investigating regulatory post-translational modification networks
• Developing novel experimental and analytical strategies
• Collaborating with national and international research partners
• Publishing research in leading international journals
• Contributing to future grant applications and strategic development of the laboratory

The positions provide a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of proteomics and PTM biology while contributing to the continued expansion of a proteomics research programme at Aarhus University.

Applicants should hold a PhD in proteomics, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, or a related discipline. In the cover letter, applicants should clearly indicate whether they are applying for Postdoctoral Position #1, Postdoctoral Position #2, or both positions, and briefly explain why they believe their expertise is particularly well suited for the selected position(s).

We welcome applications from candidates with expertise in either biological discovery-driven research, proteomics technology development, or an interdisciplinary combination of both. Experience in one or more of the following areas will be considered advantageous:

• Mass spectrometry-based proteomics
• Quantitative proteomics workflows
• Development of LC-MS/MS methodologies
• Post-translational modification analysis
• Data-independent acquisition (DIA) approaches
• Large-scale proteomics studies
• Laboratory automation and high-throughput workflows
• Molecular biology or cell biology
• DNA damage response and genome maintenance
• ADP-ribosylation, PARP biology, or related signalling pathways
• Computational analysis of proteomics datasets

Applicants are not expected to have expertise in all of these areas. We encourage applications from candidates with complementary backgrounds who are excited to contribute to either the biological or technological aspects of the research programme.

The ideal candidate:

• Is scientifically ambitious, curious, and highly motivated
• Demonstrates creativity and critical thinking in experimental design
• Can independently drive research projects while thriving in a collaborative environment
• Takes ownership of scientific questions and actively advances projects
• Has strong communication skills and a track record of scientific dissemination
• Is enthusiastic about contributing to an internationally competitive research environment

The positions will be based in the Nielsen Laboratory at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG), Aarhus University. Our research aims to understand how dynamic post-translational modification networks regulate protein function and cellular behaviour. By combining quantitative proteomics, PTM biology, and mechanistic cell biology, we seek to uncover fundamental principles governing regulatory protein states in health and disease.

The laboratory builds on more than 15 years of internationally recognized research in ADP-ribosylation biology, regulatory proteomics, and mass spectrometry-based technology development. Our work has contributed to major advances in understanding ADP-ribosylation signalling and developing analytical approaches for studying complex PTM systems at proteome scale.

We are currently expanding our activities at Aarhus University and are establishing an ambitious research programme that integrates technological innovation with biological discovery. The laboratory offers a highly collaborative environment with strong international connections and close interactions with researchers across molecular biology, genome stability, structural biology, enzymology, and quantitative proteomics.

MBG provides an outstanding interdisciplinary research environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure and a strong commitment to scientific excellence.

More information: https://mbg.au.dk

We offer:

• The opportunity to contribute to an internationally recognized research programme in regulatory proteomics and PTM biology
• Access to state-of-the-art mass spectrometry and proteomics infrastructure
• A highly interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment at Aarhus University
• Opportunities to develop independent research directions and establish scientific leadership
• Strong support for career development, international networking, and fellowship applications
• Opportunities for high-impact publications and international collaborations
• A dynamic and ambitious research culture focused on scientific excellence, innovation, and discovery
• The opportunity to help shape future research directions during an exciting phase of programme expansion
• A workplace at one of Europe's leading research-intensive universities

Place of work and area of employment: Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Universitetsbyen 81, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.

Contact information:

Professor Michael L. Nielsen Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics Aarhus University Email: mln@mbg.au.dk

Applications must be received no later than 10 August 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.