PhD Fellowship 2025 in Microbiology at the University of Copenhagen
The University of Copenhagen’s Department of Biology has announced a fully funded PhD Fellowship in Microbiology, centred on a cutting-edge project exploring the molecular “arms race” between bacteriophages and their bacterial hosts.
Backed by the Carlsberg Foundation and other partners, this fellowship will immerse one outstanding early-career scientist in a rigorous, multidisciplinary effort to illuminate new avenues for tackling antibiotic resistance.
Why This Fellowship Matters?
Successful fellows will be employed full-time for up to three years under Denmark’s national agreement for academics, receiving a competitive salary and full social benefits. Beyond the financial package, the award offers:
- State-of-the-art training in molecular biology, biochemistry, deep sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, genetics and phage engineering.
- Access to premier facilities within the Faculty of SCIENCE, including modern laboratories, bio-imaging suites and high-throughput platforms.
- International mobility, with optional research exchanges in China, Switzerland or Germany depending on project progress.
- Close mentorship from Principal Investigator Dr Yong E Zhang and a growing group that already includes two PhD candidates and incoming post-doctoral researchers.
- Professional development through course work (≈30 ECTS), teaching opportunities, conference participation and publication in high-impact journals.
Program Focus
The fellowship supports a PhD project entitled “Fundamental Study of Phage–Bacteria Interactions.” Using Escherichia coli and its phages as a model, the research will dissect infection dynamics at molecular, physiological and systems levels. Insights gained are expected to translate to clinically relevant pathogens and to inform new strategies against antibiotic-resistant “superbugs.”
Who Should Apply – Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold (or be finishing) a Master’s degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or a closely related discipline, equivalent to 300 ECTS in the Danish system. Essential prerequisites include solid wet-lab skills (cloning, microbial culture) and demonstrated knowledge of molecular microbiology, bacterial stress responses and phage biology.
Preferred extras are experience with omics data analysis, bioinformatics competence in R or Python, and evidence of scientific writing (e.g., thesis or publications). Fluency in English and strong analytical, organizational and interpersonal skills are also expected.
Responsibilities & Training Commitments
The fellow will design and execute independent experiments, complete mandatory PhD courses, contribute to teaching, present progress reports, spend time at an external institution, and submit a thesis comprising publishable research articles.
How to Apply?
All materials—motivated cover letter (max 1 page), CV, degree certificates and transcripts, and any publications—must be submitted in English through the University of Copenhagen’s online portal https://employment.ku.dk/phd/?show=164487. A concise application guide, country-specific credential assessments and further details are available on the university website.
The last date to apply for the PhD Fellowship in Microbiology at the University of Copenhagen is 31 August 2025 (23:59 GMT +2).
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