Lars Henning Engelholm

PhD fellowship at the Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC) / Finsen Laboratory , Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) engineering with a focus on internalization and lysosomal delivery . The project aims to engineer and test next-generation ADCs with improved trafficking and payload release. Research includes bispecific constructs, established ADC targets such as uPAR , MMP14 , uPARAP , and the Mannose Receptor , plus receptors that promote lysosomal delivery such as IGF2R . Lead candidates will be evaluated in cancer cell models and in vivo, including sarcoma and glioblastoma models. This PhD is part of a Novo Nordisk Foundation Distinguished Innovator project, Breaking Barriers: Engineering ADCs for Efficient BBB Transport and Lysosomal Targeting , in collaboration with Professor Matthias Herth (Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, UCPH) and Professor Katrine Qvortrup (Department of Chemistry, DTU). Key work includes recombinant antibody production and purification, payload conjugation, ADC characterization, cell-based uptake/internalization assays, flow cytometry, drug screening, cytotoxicity and viability assays, and in vivo efficacy studies. The position also includes PhD coursework, teaching/dissemination, participation in active research environments, and writing a PhD thesis. Eligibility highlights: an MSc in pharmaceutical biotechnology, biotechnology, or a closely related field; strong hands-on ADC experience; experience with mammalian cancer cell assays, flow cytometry, and laboratory animal work; excellent English; and an international research background. Functional genomics and sarcoma model experience are advantageous. The fellowship is full-time for 3 years, with salary and pension under Danish state agreements. The monthly salary starts at approximately 31,800 DKK (about 4,200 EUR , August 2026 level) plus pension. Deadline: 6 November 2026, 23:59 CET. Apply online through the university portal and upload the required documents (motivation letter, CV, MSc diploma/transcript, and publication list if available).