PhD student in alpha cell biology and diabetes

Department biology
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen

We are looking for a highly motivated, dynamic and driven researcher with a MSc. or equivalent to join the section for Cell Biology and Physiology (CBP), Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen to work in the Knudsen group. The candidate should have a strong background in cell biology, physiology and/or molecular biology. The starting date is 1st of April 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is funded as part of an ERC Starting grant.

About us
We are located at the Department of Biology, and the section from cell biology and physiology in UCPH north campus. The section consists of 11 groups with a broad interest in basic understanding of cell biology and physiology as well as molecular disease mechanisms (https://www1.bio.ku.dk/english/research/cbp/)

Our research
We are interested in the fundamental mechanisms that control secretion of the hormone glucagon from pancreatic alpha cells, and how changes in alpha cell function contribute to the regulation of whole-body metabolism and physiology. We work on cell cultures, primary tissue from genetically modified mouse models and human donors. Using biochemical assays, live cell time lapse microscopy and in-situ perfusion, combined with in vivo experiments we explore how alpha cell function is regulated.

Your job
We are looking for individuals interested in exploring alpha cell biology. As a PhD student you will participate in a project, in collaboration with a Postdoc, where we will investigate kinase signaling in alpha cells. The aim of the project is to integrate the mechanisms that regulate glucagon secretion. As part of the project, you will directly work with the generation of viral constructs and use live cell FRET imaging to understand paracrine signaling in alpha cells. You will also have the opportunity to participate in the maintenance of several colonies of genetically modified mice and design and perform in vivo experiments to follow up on observations made in isolated islets.

Profile
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic researcher who, in addition to the desired expertise stated above, has the following skills and qualifications:

• MSc in cell in Biochemistry, biology or similar.

• Experience with live cell confocal microscopy

• Experience with Electron microscopy

• Experience with Phyton programming

• Expertise in molecular cloning

• Proven track record showing scientific productivity with at least pending publications in peer-reviewed journals.

• Proficient communication skills and ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams.

• Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken.

To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project, e.g. [relevant educations]. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database.

Responsibilities and tasks

• Carry through an independent research project under supervision

• Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE

• Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad

• Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities

• Write scientific papers

• Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project

The PhD program
You will as a PhD student on this project become part of the PhD program at the university of Copenhagen, which entail a three-year full-time study within the framework of the regular PhD program (5+3 scheme) if you already have an education equivalent to a relevant Danish master’s degree.

Terms of employment

The employment as PhD Student is a full-time position for 3 years. Starting date is April 1st , 2024, or after agreement.

Employment is conditional upon your successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. This requires submission and acceptance of an application for the specific project formulated by the applicant.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure.

Application and assessment Procedure
Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

• Cover letter expressing the motivation and previous research experience of the applicant (no more than 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position.
• Copies of original diplomas for Bachelor of Science and Master of Science and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted
• List of publications (if possible)
• References (name and contact details of at least two references)

Application Deadline: 14 January 2024, 23.59 pm CET

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee. You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

The further process
After deadline, a number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You are notified, whether you will be passed for assessment.

The assessor will assess the qualifications and experience of the shortlisted applicants with respect to the above mentioned research area, techniques, skills and other requirements. The assessor will conclude whether each applicant is qualified and, if so, for which of the two models. The assessed applicants will have the opportunity to comment on their assessment. You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Questions
Inquiries about the position can be made to Jakob G Knudsen ([email protected]).
The University of Copenhagen International Staff Mobility office offers support and assistance to all international researchers on all issues related to moving to and settling in Denmark. Read more at www.ism.ku.dk.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Kilde: Jobnet.dk