The Department of Molecular Medicine at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) invites applications for a PhD scholarship focused on biomarker and therapeutic target investigations in biliary atresia. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in translational biomedical research, particularly in liver disease and pediatric health.

The PhD project is anchored at the Department of Inflammation, Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), SDU, which offers an international and interdisciplinary research environment. The department is renowned for its expertise in immunology and inflammation, with a focus on the mechanisms underlying inflammatory diseases and their impact on tissue damage and disease progression. Students benefit from modern laboratory facilities, advanced molecular and cellular methods, and a collaborative atmosphere that encourages academic mentoring and international partnerships.

Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare, severe cholestatic liver disease in infants and the leading cause of pediatric liver transplantation. The disease is marked by progressive inflammation and liver fibrosis, but the mechanisms driving fibrogenesis are not fully understood, and reliable prognostic biomarkers are lacking. This project aims to improve risk stratification and deepen the mechanistic understanding of fibrosis development to enhance outcomes following Kasai portoenterostomy and inform future therapeutic strategies.

The PhD student will engage in a combination of clinical, translational, and experimental research approaches. Key activities include working with patient cohorts to perform biomarker analyses and statistical modeling of clinical outcomes, developing and validating novel blood-based biomarker assays, and conducting mechanistic studies in a neonatal large-animal model of cholestatic liver injury. The student will participate in in vivo interventions, longitudinal sample collection, and downstream analyses of liver fibrosis, immune responses, and tissue remodeling using histological, biochemical, and molecular techniques. The project is a collaboration between SDU in Odense and Copenhagen University Hospital/University in Copenhagen, with tasks at both locations.

Comprehensive training is provided in translational liver research, including data analysis, experimental design, and scientific dissemination. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in medicine, biomedical sciences, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, veterinary science, or a related field. Experience or strong interest in experimental laboratory work, basic knowledge of cell and molecular biology, immunology, or pathology, and interest in liver biology, fibrosis, or pediatric diseases are preferred. Skills in biomarker analyses, histological techniques, molecular assays, animal models, and data analysis/statistics are advantageous. Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and proficiency in English are required.

Funding is provided through a PhD fellowship, with salary according to the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) agreement. The base salary is DKK 374,912.98 (excluding 18.07% pension contribution), with supplements based on seniority and union negotiation. The university values diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.

Applications must be submitted electronically via the provided link, including a motivation letter (max. 2 pages), detailed CV, and certified diploma copy in PDF format. The deadline for applications is February 28th, 2026. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. For further information, contact Professor Grith L Sørensen at [email protected]