The Neurobiology Research Unit at the Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, is seeking a 90% postdoctoral fellow to work in the field of traumatic brain injury. The postdoc position is available from September 1, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter, for a period of one year.
Job description
In this research project the candidate will investigate the transgenerational effect of maternal traumatic brain injury on offspring in rats. There is growing concern that maternal trauma is a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum and cerebral palsy. However, studies exploring this causal relationship are limited. Understanding the early-life factors that contribute to these neurodevelopmental disorders is crucial to identify vulnerable population and develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. Using a focal cortical ablation model in pregnant rats, the project explores neurological and behavioral outcomes in offspring at key developmental stages. Tasks include behavioral testing, MRI, single cell RNA-sequencing, proteomics and histology.
The postdoctoral fellow will be responsible for the planning of the project as well as data acquisition, preparation and analysis, manuscript writing, and other activities for disseminating the results. In addition, the candidate will have to fulfill the teaching obligations associated with a postdoc position at the Institute of Molecular Medicine.
The Neurobiology Unit conducts world-class basic and translational research to improve the understanding of brain development, brain function, and diseases affecting the brain and spinal cord, as well as their treatment. We offer a stimulating, international research environment in neurobiology research. You will work in the new Faculty of Health Sciences (NytSund) building with modern laboratories and animal facilities.
Qualification requirements
Qualified and highly motivated candidates from all nationalities are encouraged to apply.
The successful applicant will be expected to have:
- Obtained a PhD in a relevant area, e.g. neurobiology, biomedical sciences, medicine, or related field.
- Ability to work structured and independently.
- Good communication skills in English.
- Good collaborative and social abilities.
- Has documented research experience through first authorships on scientific international peer-reviewed publications
- Prior experience with animal experimental techniques, especially small animal surgery, neuroimaging, biochemical techniques such as western blotting, PCR, and immunohistochemistry.
- Prior experience in the fields of neurodegenerative diseases or neurotrauma is considered a plus.
- Previous postdoc experience in neuroscience is preferred.
For more information, please feel free to contact Mengliang Zhang at [email protected]
Application
Applications must be written in English and be submitted electronically using the “Apply now” link below.
Applications must include:
- A letter of motivation (max. 1 page)
- A detailed CV
- PhD degree certificate (copy)
- A complete and numbered list of publications
- Three scientific publications considered to be most important for the advertised position (please note that one file per publication must be submitted)
Incomplete applications will not be assessed. Applications may be shortlisted.
The closing date for applications is July 13, 2025, at 23.59 hrs. CEST
Applications that are incomplete or received after the deadline will be neither considered nor evaluated.
The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).
Living and working in Denmark
Foreign applicants will be offered Danish language training as part of the employment.
The International Staff Office (ISO) at SDU provides a variety of services for new employees, guests and people who consider applying for a job at the University of Southern Denmark. Read about working in Denmark (Danish rules and guidelines) here.
The University of Southern Denmark wishes its staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their personal background.
