PhD Fellowship in Organoid-Infection Biology: Host-Microbe Interactions and Evolutionary Medicine

The University of Copenhagen’s Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics at the GLOBE Institute invites applications for a fully funded PhD fellowship in organoid-infection biology, commencing March 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. This position is ideal for candidates interested in evolutionary medicine, host-microbe interactions, and advanced cellular biology techniques. Research Focus: The successful candidate will join a dynamic, international team investigating how microbe-host interactions, particularly involving Helicobacter pylori , influence host health. The group employs mouse infection models, gastric organoid cultures, and clinical sample screening to study infection impacts and drug-microbe interactions. The project will specifically explore how age and H. pylori infection shape the cellular composition, transcriptional programs, and developmental trajectories of the gastric epithelium. Early-life infection with H. pylori is linked to chronic gastritis, gastric cancer, and protection against asthma and allergies, but the underlying cellular mechanisms remain unclear. Methodologies: The project will utilize single-cell transcriptomics, immunofluorescent microscopy, and methylation sequencing, working with mouse stomach glands and derived gastric organoid cultures. The research environment offers access to modern laboratories, high-throughput sequencing, and advanced microscopy facilities. Supervision and Environment: The principal supervisor is Associate Professor Sandra Breum Andersen. The Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics is a Center of Excellence established in 2020, fostering interdisciplinary research at the intersection of natural and medical sciences and the humanities. The GLOBE Institute is committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing a supportive, family-friendly workplace. Funding and Employment: The fellowship is a 3-year, fixed-term position with a starting monthly salary of 31,242 DKK (approx. 4,178 EUR, November 2025 level) plus pension, in accordance with Danish state agreements. Employment is contingent on successful enrolment as a PhD student at the Graduate School at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must hold a master’s degree equivalent to a Danish two-year master’s in Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field. Desirable skills include organoid or cell culture experience, bioinformatics, FELASA certification for mouse work, microscopy, proficiency in English, teamwork, and scientific publication experience. Certified diplomas and transcripts are required; international degrees may need equivalency assessment. Application Process: Applications must be submitted electronically via the official application link. Required documents include a motivated letter, CV, certified diploma and transcript, and a publication list (if available). The deadline for applications is December 7, 2025, at 23:59 CET. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. For further details, visit the application and recruitment process links provided. Contact: For specific questions about the fellowship, contact Associate Professor Sandra Breum Andersen at [email protected]. For general information about PhD studies at the Faculty, visit the Graduate School’s website.