PhD Fellowship in Chemical Biology – Quorum Sensing and Staphylococci Virulence University of Copenhagen in Denmark

This three-year PhD fellowship in Chemical Biology at the University of Copenhagen offers an exciting opportunity to work at the interface of chemistry and biology, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of quorum sensing and virulence in staphylococci. The project, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation Disease Catalyst program, centers on the identification, synthesis, and functional analysis of autoinducing peptides (AIPs) that mediate communication and crosstalk among staphylococci within the microbiome. The research aims to target the biosynthetic machinery and receptor tyrosine kinase involved in the pathogenic behavior of these bacteria. The successful candidate will engage in synthesis, assay development, and biological evaluation of compounds, with significant experimental work conducted in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at UCPH and researchers at Princeton University, including a planned research exchange. The Olsen Lab, based in the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, is a diverse and inclusive team of about ten MSc students, PhD students, and postdocs, with expertise in chemistry, biochemistry, and engineering. The group explores small molecules, peptides, peptidomimetics, and proteins in biological systems, with ongoing projects on macrocyclic peptides, HDAC inhibitors, and chemical biology tools for studying enzyme specificity. The department provides a dynamic, international research environment with modern laboratories and state-of-the-art equipment. The PhD student will be expected to carry out independent research under supervision, complete relevant PhD courses, participate in research environments including an international stay, gain teaching experience, and write a thesis. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a relevant field (chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, or equivalent), with qualifications equivalent to a Danish master’s degree. Selection criteria include academic background, research experience, publications, GPA, and a strong interest in organic chemistry and biologically active molecules. The position is fully funded, with a starting monthly salary of approximately 31,200 DKK (about 4,100 EUR) plus pension, and is limited to three years. Applications must be submitted electronically in English, including a motivated letter, CV, diploma and transcripts, publication list, and references. The deadline for applications is 10 November 2025. For more information, visit the department and graduate school websites or contact the principal supervisor.