Casper Steinmann

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in computational pharmaceutical science. This research opportunity is supported by the Center for Pharmaceutical Data Science Education (CPDSE) and supervised by Associate Professor Casper Steinmann. The project focuses on physics-based computational modeling of pharmaceutical formulations and molecular recognition processes, with particular emphasis on drug delivery systems. Research will center on molecular binding phenomena, such as host–guest inclusion complexes and drug–excipient interactions, which are critical for formulation stability and performance. The successful candidate will employ atomistic molecular modeling grounded in statistical mechanics to investigate binding thermodynamics and molecular interactions in pharmaceutical environments. The project aims to develop and evaluate computational models that accurately describe molecular binding and thermodynamic behavior in complex pharmaceutical systems, contributing to the advancement of pharmaceutical data science and the integration of computational chemistry, molecular modeling, and quantitative analysis in the field. The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is renowned for its interdisciplinary research, bringing together expertise in physics, chemistry, and pharmacy to address major societal challenges in energy, environment, health, and sustainability. The department offers a vibrant research environment and excellent opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Eligibility: Applicants must have a M.Sc. degree in chemistry, physics, computational chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a closely related field. Required qualifications include strong quantitative training in statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, experience in computational modeling of molecular systems, proficiency in scientific programming (Python or similar), familiarity with Linux-based computational environments, and documented experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems. Fluency in English (oral and written) is essential. Funding: The position is fully funded for three years by CPDSE, with salary and benefits according to standard Danish PhD fellowships. Application Process: Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided link. Required documents include a motivation letter, detailed CV, copies of diplomas and transcripts, contact details for at least two referees, and a short research proposal outlining a possible PhD research direction within computational pharmaceutical science. All documents should be in English and uploaded as three PDF files. The application deadline is 15 May 2026. For further information, applicants may contact Associate Professor Casper Steinmann. International applicants are encouraged to consult resources about working and living in Denmark.