Aarhus University
10 months ago
This position has expired. You can find similar positions from the section below or browse our positions listing pages.
PhD in Anaerobic Hydrocarbon-Oxidizing Microbes – Biology, Aarhus University Aarhus University in Denmark
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
The position is a PhD fellowship at Aarhus University, Denmark. Specific details about stipend amount, tuition coverage, or whether it is fully or partially funded are not provided in the announcement.
Deadline
Expired
Country
Denmark
University
Aarhus University
Suggested positions
Keywords
About this position
Aarhus University is offering a PhD fellowship in the Graduate School of Natural Sciences (Biology programme), focusing on the discovery of new anaerobic hydrocarbon-oxidizing microbes. The project is hosted by the Research Group Archaea in the Department of Biology – Microbiology, which investigates the ecophysiology and metabolism of deep-sea Archaea and Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria (SRB) involved in the anaerobic oxidation of hydrocarbons such as ethane, propane, and butane. These hydrocarbons are significant components of natural gas and play crucial roles in the carbon and energy cycles of marine sediments.
The PhD candidate will work to identify and characterize novel clades of hydrocarbon-oxidizing Archaea, SRB, or Archaea-SRB consortia from diverse environments. Research activities include initiating enrichment cultures using single or mixed hydrocarbons as substrates, with sediments sourced from deep sea sites, intertidal zones, hydrocarbon seeps, and mud volcanoes. The project involves advanced microbial community analysis using community sequencing, metagenomics, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), fluorescence microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and nanoSIMS-based chemical imaging. The candidate will also conduct culture-based experiments and metabolomics to resolve the physiology and metabolic capabilities of these microorganisms.
The overarching goal is to discover novel phylogenetic lineages and functional types of anaerobic hydrocarbon-oxidizing microorganisms, expanding our understanding of the metabolic pathways and interactions that enable alkane oxidation in anoxic environments. The project offers opportunities for participation in sampling campaigns and collaboration within an interdisciplinary team.
Applicants must hold an MSc degree in biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field, with a strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, or bioinformatics. Excellent English communication skills and a strong interest in interdisciplinary research and high-impact publishing are required. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency.
The place of employment is Aarhus University, Denmark. The application deadline is 1 February 2026, and the position is available from May 2026 or later. For more information, contact Associate Professors Florin Musat or Niculina Musat at the Department of Biology. Application details and requirements are available on the Aarhus University PhD website.
Funding details
The position is a PhD fellowship at Aarhus University, Denmark. Specific details about stipend amount, tuition coverage, or whether it is fully or partially funded are not provided in the announcement.
What's required
Applicants must have a relevant MSc degree in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or equivalent, and must have graduated before the application deadline. A strong background in microbiology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, or bioinformatics is required. Excellent collaborative skills, strong potential to publish at a high international level, excellent command of English, and an interest in interdisciplinary research are expected. International applicants whose first language is not English must prove excellent English writing skills and fluency.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Professors
Associate Professor of Microbiology
Denmark
Research Interests
Microbiology
Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Science
Biology
Metabolic Biology
Associate Professor
Denmark
Research Interests
Microbiology
Environmental Chemistry
Metabolic Biology
Phd Studentship In: A Simple Approach To Tailoring Biofilms For Effective Removal Of Micropollutants During Wastewater Treatment
Nutrient Cycling
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.