Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics
Institute:
Aarhus University
Country:
Denmark
Research Field:
Computer science, bioinformatics
Posted Date:
Apr 11, 2026
Deadline:
Jun 01, 2026
Offer Period:
2 Years
Offer Start Date:
Sep 01, 2026
Postdoc positions for development of RNA design software
Project Description:
- Applications are invited for a fix-termed 2-year postdoc position in the field of RNA design at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark. The position is part of the project RIBOTICS (RNA Origami Technology in Cell Systems) funded by an Advanced Grant from the European Research Council (ERC).
- In the Andersen lab for Biomolecular Design (andersen-lab.dk) we are experts in designing DNA, RNA and proteins to create nanoscale devices for applications in biotechnology and medicine. The lab invented the RNA origami method [1] and have developed basic algorithms and software for RNA design. However, there is a great need to develop new software for the design of advanced RNA origami robots that can sense, compute and actuate [2].
- In the recently funded RIBOTICS (RNA Origami Technology in Cell Systems) project, the lab aims to develop RNA origami robots for cell factories (yeast production strains) for improved synthesis of valuable proteins and biochemicals.
The project includes the following tasks:
- Develop computer-aided design software for modular construction of switchable RNA nanostructures.
- Develop databases for RNA modules for automated building of atomistic models.
- Develop multistate sequence design algorithm for rational design of RNA switches.
- Develop database of cell type specific constraints for incorporation in RNA design algorithms.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- Applicants must hold a PhD degree in computer science, bioinformatics or similar.
- The applicant must be proficient in programming in Python and Java script.
- Have strong cooperation and communication skills.
- Have good command of the English language, both spoken and written.
- Be independent and capable of assisting younger students in their research projects.
Preferred Qualification:
- Experience with biomolecular prediction, design, and simulation software.
- Experience with object-oriented programming and bioinformatics algorithm development.
- Experience with database construction.
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- The position is for 2 years.
Benefits:
- The department offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment with many industrial, national and international collaborators. The city of Aarhus is the second largest in Denmark located on the eastern coast of the peninsula of Jutland. Aarhus offers a rich cultural life with its many international students and cultural events. It is easily accessible from major European cities either by train or plane. Furthermore, the workplace offers:
- a well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories and access to shared equipment including world-class cryo-EM and FACS core facilities.
- a research climate encouraging lively, open and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
- a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities
- a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.
- a well-developed research infrastructure, laboratories and access to shared equipment including world-class cryo-EM and FACS core facilities.
- a research climate encouraging lively, open and critical discussion within and across different fields of research
- a work environment with close working relationships, networking and social activities
- a workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
Letter of reference
- If you want a referee to upload a letter of reference on your behalf, please state the referee’s contact information when you submit your application. We strongly recommend that you make an agreement with the person in question before you enter the referee’s contact information, and that you ensure that the referee has enough time to write the letter of reference before the application deadline. Unfortunately, it is not possible to ensure that letters of reference received after the application deadline will be taken into consideration.
- The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any).
How to apply:
- Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated.
- All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation.
- The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
The Andersen lab for Biomolecular Design (andersen-lab.dk) has long-standing expertise in designing DNA, RNA and proteins to create nanoscale devices for applications in biotechnology and medicine. The lab is located at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (www.inano.dk) which combines expertise from the disciplines including physics, chemistry, molecular biology and medicine to carry out world class interdisciplinary research in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The center gives access to a broad range of infrastructure, tools and expertise. The lab is part of the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (mbg.au.dk) at Aarhus University, which is a vibrant, collaborative, and international research community that includes 142 full-time scientific staff and 85 PhD students. The department is committed to fostering an inspiring and inclusive work environment. Aarhus University offers a wide range of services to support international researchers and their families, including relocation assistance and career counselling for accompanying partners. English is the primary language used for internal communication and teaching, and international candidates are not required to learn Danish.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a postdoctoral position?
Postdoctoral positions are open to candidates who have completed a PhD or will complete their doctoral degree before the start date. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the funding scheme and host institution.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most postdoctoral positions are open to international applicants. Visa sponsorship and work permit support are usually provided by the host institution, subject to local regulations.
Is prior postdoctoral experience required?
In most cases, prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory. However, candidates with relevant research experience beyond the PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
What is the typical duration of a postdoctoral contract?
Postdoctoral contracts typically range from six months to three years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance.
Are teaching responsibilities included?
Teaching responsibilities vary by institution and position. Some postdoctoral roles are research-only, while others may include limited teaching or supervision duties.
Can I apply for multiple postdoctoral positions?
Yes. Candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple suitable postdoctoral positions to increase their chances of selection.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.