Postdoctoral researcher – membrane protein structural biology

About the role

The Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology at the University of Copenhagen seeks a motivated postdoctoral researcher to join a 3.3‑year project on serial synchrotron crystallography of amino acid transporters for drug discovery. The position starts on 1 September 2026 and is funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Key responsibilities

• Produce and purify challenging human membrane proteins.
• Perform structural characterization using X‑ray crystallography at the MicroMAX beamline and cryo‑EM.
• Manage data acquisition, processing, and reporting.
• Coordinate multiple project streams and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to structure‑guided ligand discovery and methodological development.

Required profile

• PhD in structural biology with a first‑author publication in the field.
• Experience in membrane protein production and purification.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and in a team.
• Proficiency in spoken and written English and good interpersonal communication.
• Motivation to apply for research funding and manage projects in a structured manner.

Required skills

• Membrane protein production and purification techniques.
• X‑ray crystallography and serial synchrotron crystallography.
• Cryo‑electron microscopy (cryo‑EM).
• Data management and scientific reporting.

What we offer

• Creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic, international research environment.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure for protein production, crystallography, and cryo‑EM.
• Funding support from the Lundbeck Foundation and Novo Nordisk Foundation.