Research Assistant with PhD-Fellowship Continuation

About the role

The Friesen group at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, NNF Center of Stem Cell Medicine (reNEW), University of Copenhagen, is looking for a motivated Research Assistant with experience in mammalian cell culture. The position starts on 15 January 2027 (or later by agreement) and is full-time (37 hours per week). After a 12-month RA period, a positive evaluation and mutual agreement allow transition to a funded 3-year PhD position.

Key responsibilities

• Work on one or more projects establishing hPSC-derived metabolic disease models, genome editing of hPSC tool cell lines including reporter lines, and setup of translational screening experiments.
• Analyse existing and new omics data.
• Help shape the lab's culture and research direction, own projects early and set up systems for the group.
• As a PhD fellow, carry out an independent research project under supervision, complete about 30 ECTS of PhD courses, take part in research environments including a stay at another team, gain teaching and dissemination experience, and write a PhD thesis.

Required profile

• MSc degree in biology, biomedicine, biochemistry or similar.
• Experience with human cell culture and demonstrated wet-lab experience.
• Interest in fundamental or translational research, disease mechanisms, hPSC biology and metabolic disease.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with good English communication skills.
• Desirable: hPSC culture, genome editing and molecular/cell biology techniques, and bioinformatics analysis.

What we offer

• Opportunity to continue into a funded 3-year PhD position.
• Early ownership of projects and a hand in shaping the lab's direction.
• Salary and terms follow the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State; a pension fund contribution of 18.07% is added, and foreign candidates may qualify for reduced tax under the Special Tax Scheme for Researchers.

Applications (cover letter, CV, certificates and two references) are submitted online by 29 November 2026; interviews are expected in weeks 50-51.