The University of Copenhagen is offering a PhD fellowship or Postdoc position in brain tumor bioinformatics, commencing in March 2026. The successful candidate will join the research group led by Professor and consultant neuropathologist Bjarne Winther Kristensen, based at the Biotech Research and Innovation Center (BRIC), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, and the Bartholin Institute, Department of Pathology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet. The group’s main research interest is understanding how the tumor microenvironment influences brain tumor aggressiveness and therapy response, with a particular focus on glioblastoma. Projects in the group utilize patient tumor tissue, experimental in vitro and in vivo models, and advanced bioinformatics approaches.

The core tasks for the PhD or postdoc will involve bioinformatic investigation of tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment in histologically distinct glioblastoma patient samples, correlating these findings with clinical outcomes. The project will also include analysis of samples from patient-derived animal models. Cutting-edge spatial transcriptomics technologies will be employed, enabling gene expression measurement within intact tumor sections and preserving spatial relationships between malignant, stromal, and immune cells.

The ideal candidate should have a background in biological sciences and documented experience in high-plex spatial transcriptomics or single-cell/nuclei RNA sequencing, or proficiency in R or Python. Applicants must hold an MD or a master’s degree equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (two years) in a relevant field such as human biology, neuroimmunology, or bioinformatics. If the applicant has a PhD, the thesis should be relevant to the project area. Additional assessment criteria include grade point average, professional qualifications, previous publications, relevant work experience, other professional activities, a strong interest in brain tumor biology, and language skills.

The position is full-time (37 hours/week) and limited to a fixed term of 3 years. Salary, pension, and employment conditions follow the Danish Region’s guidelines. The research environment is creative, stimulating, and international, with access to modern laboratories and platforms for spatial analysis.

To apply, submit your application electronically via the provided link before 31 December 2025, 23.59 CET. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, certified copies of degrees and transcripts, publication list, and optional recommendation letters. Short-listed candidates will be invited for an on-site or virtual interview. For specific information about the fellowship, contact Professor Bjarne Kristensen at [email protected]. General information about PhD studies at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences is available on the Graduate School’s website.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to advance their expertise in brain tumor biology, bioinformatics, and spatial transcriptomics within a leading European research institution.