Postdoc position in Mechanisms of Liver Size Control to the Ober Group at DanStem

A postdoctoral position is available in the group of Elke Ober at DanStem. The team studies fundamental mechanisms of tissue morphogenesis in the liver. The aim is to understand how different cell types communicate with each other and how the resulting cell behaviours establish an organ with a functional tissue architecture and of the correct size. To achieve this, the group utilises zebrafish genetic tools and state-of the-art molecular and cell biology techniques, such as mRNA sequencing, genome editing, confocal and light-sheet microscopy. This research project will employ a multi-disciplinary approach to understand how liver size is controlled combining zebrafish models of liver growth with human in vitro models. Starting date for this position is 1 May 2020, or upon agreement with the chosen candidate.

Institute:
The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology – DanStem is located at the University of Copenhagen. DanStem addresses basic research questions in stem cell and developmental biology and has activities focused on the translation of promising basic research results into new strategies and targets for the development of new therapies for cancer and chronic diseases such as diabetes and liver failure. Find more information about the Center at http://danstem.ku.dk/.

Job description:
We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious postdoctoral candidate with a strong background in cell, developmental and/or stem cell biology to join our team. The candidate will investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling start and termination of organ growth in unique zebrafish liver mutants and human in vitro models of hepatic stem cell differentiation using e.g. advanced live cell imaging and transcriptomic approaches. The position is for 2 years with a possible extension.

Qualifications:

• Candidates must hold a PhD degree in cell/developmental/stem cell biology or similar, with a track-record of successful scientific work.
• Candidates should have a strong background in zebrafish genetics, cell biology and/or live cell imaging and advanced quantitative image analysis.
• Previous experience in bioinformatics, next-generation sequencing and/or human stem cell differentiation are considered an advantage.
• Good English communication skills, both oral and written, are prerequisite for the successful candidate.

Terms of employment:
The employment is planned to start 1 May 2020 or upon agreement with the chosen candidate. The full-time position is for 2 years with possiblity of extension. The terms of employment are set according to the Agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations or other relevant professional organization. The position will be at the level of postdoctoral fellow and the basic salary according to seniority. Currently, the salary starts at 34.360 DKK/approx. 4,.590 Euro (October 2019-level). A supplement could be negotiated, dependent on the candidate´s experiences and qualifications. In addition a monthly contribution of 17.1% of the salary is paid into a pension fund.

Non-Danish and Danish applicants may be eligible for tax reductions, if they hold a PhD degree and have not lived in Denmark the last 10 years.

The position is covered by the “Memorandum on the Job Structure of Academic Staff at Universities” of 11 December 2019.

Questions:
For further information contact Associate Professor Elke Ober, elke.ober@sund.ku.dk.

Foreign applicants may find the following links useful: www.ism.ku.dk (International Staff Mobility) and www.workingconditions.ku.dk.

Application Instruction:
The application must be submitted in English, by clicking on “Apply online” below. Only online applications will be accepted.

The application must include:

• Cover letter detailing the basis on which the applicant scientific qualifications meet the requirements for this position.
• Curriculum vitae.
• List of references (full address, incl. email and phone number)
• Diplomas – all relevant certificates.
• List of publications

Deadline for applications: 5 March 2020, 23.59pm.

The further process:
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Appointments Committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an expert assessment committee. Selected applicants are notified of the composition of the committee and each applicant has the opportunity to comment on his/her assessment. You may read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk.

Link for general info on the recruitment process: http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process.

The applicant will be assessed according to the Ministerial Order no. 242 of 13 March 2012 on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities.

University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation. Appointment will be based on merit alone.