Aarhus University, Denmark, invites applications for a 33-month Postdoctoral Fellowship in Archaea-Bacteria Interactions within the Department of Biology. The position is part of a cutting-edge research project funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark, beginning on April 1, 2026, and running through December 31, 2028.
This postdoctoral position offers an exceptional opportunity for researchers interested in microbial ecology, syntrophic interactions, and advanced biological imaging. The research focuses on aggregate-forming archaea-bacteria consortia from deep-sea environments, combining physiological studies with high-resolution structural and chemical imaging.
Project Overview & Research Focus
Microbial life in oxygen-free environments often depends on close physical and metabolic cooperation. The project, titled “Teaming Up: Archaea–Bacteria Partnerships to Thrive in Low-Energy Anoxic Environments,” aims to uncover how these partnerships form, function, and persist under extreme energy limitations. Using deep-sea microbial aggregate models, the postdoctoral researcher will investigate energy conservation, microbial communication, and cellular organization at the microscale.
The postdoctoral researcher will work hands-on with advanced methodologies, including:
- Cultivation and experimentation with anaerobic syntrophic microbial cultures.
- Stable isotope labelling combined with NanoSIMS (Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry).
- Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and advanced confocal laser scanning microscopy.
- Collaborating with local and international research teams.
Key Position Details
- Institution: Aarhus University, Department of Biology, Denmark
- Duration: 33 months (full-time)
- Target Start Date: April 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: January 30, 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Position ID: 19865
- Location: Ny Munkegade 116, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
Qualifications & Requirements
- A PhD (doctoral degree) in Microbiology, Biogeochemistry, Microbial Ecology, or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated experience in anaerobic microbial cultivation and molecular ecology.
- Familiarity with advanced imaging techniques (such as confocal microscopy or electron microscopy) is highly desirable.
- Excellent written and spoken English skills, with a strong record of scientific publications.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in international, multidisciplinary teams.
What Aarhus University Offers
- A highly collaborative and international work environment with state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure.
- Employment governed by Danish collective labor agreements, offering a competitive salary and pension scheme.
- Comprehensive relocation support and career services for accompanying partners through the International Staff Office.
- Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted in English through Aarhus University’s online recruitment system by January 30, 2026. Submissions should include a motivation letter, a detailed CV, copies of academic diplomas/transcripts, and contact details for references.
To submit your application online, please visit the official Aarhus University portal: Official Aarhus University Application Portal.
For scientific enquiries, contact Associate Professor Niculina Musat at niculina.musat@bio.au.dk or phone +45 9352 1373.