Postdoc in Soil Microbiome Assembly (Full-time, 2 Years) in Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering) – Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Summary

The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) seeks a postdoctoral researcher for a two‑year, full‑time position in the Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering). The project focuses on soil microbiome assembly, applying ecological and evolutionary theory to develop strategies for engineering soil microbiomes and soil inoculants. The successful candidate will conduct large‑scale field work, perform molecular and metagenomic analyses, and collaborate within an international, interdisciplinary team led by Prof. Jennifer Martiny. Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in microbial ecology, microbiology or a related field, have a strong publication record, and possess experience in genomics, bench work, and field research. The role offers employment under a collective agreement, relocation support, and a collaborative research environment.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)
Position Type	Postdoc
Discipline	Microbiology
Research Area	Soil Microbiome Assembly
Degree Required	PhD degree (or equivalent)
Funding	Salary (collective agreement)
Contract Duration	2 years
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-11
Required Documents	Cover letter, CV, Academic diplomas (MSc/PhD, in English), List of publications
Employer Address	Søltofts Plads, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
Employer Contact	Professor Jennifer Martiny, [email protected]

About the Project

The project aims to translate ecological and evolutionary concepts into practical approaches for engineering soil microbiomes. By establishing and sampling large‑scale field experiments, the researcher will study how microbial communities assemble and how these processes can be harnessed to develop effective soil inoculants, ultimately contributing to sustainable agriculture and ecosystem management.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish, maintain and sample large‑scale field projects
• Study soil microbiome assembly using field and laboratory experiments with molecular and microbiological methods
• Work independently while collaborating within an international, interdisciplinary team
• Conduct fieldwork locally and internationally

Required Skills

• PhD in microbial ecology, evolution, microbiology or related area
• Record of publication in peer‑reviewed journals
• Strong background in genomic and metagenomic analysis of microbial communities
• Experience with microbial or molecular bench work and/or -omics technologies
• Experience conducting field‑based research
• Experience working in teams and/or supervising at university level
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English
• Good organizational skills, collaborative spirit and willingness to conduct fieldwork

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a PhD (or equivalent) in microbial ecology, microbiology, evolution or a closely related discipline, a solid record of peer‑reviewed publications, and experience in genomic/metagenomic analysis, molecular bench work, and field‑based research. Candidates should demonstrate strong English communication, organizational skills, teamwork, and willingness to conduct fieldwork, including supervising or mentoring at the university level.

Benefits

• Rewarding and challenging job in an international environment
• Academic excellence, collegial respect and academic freedom
• Employment based on collective agreement with negotiable supplements
• Information and support for relocating to Denmark

About the Employer

DTU is described as one of Europe’s leading elite technical universities, globally recognized for research excellence, education, innovation and scientific advice. DTU Bioengineering is presented as an international leader in biotechnology and biomedicine, employing around 400 staff, two thirds of whom are scientific personnel, and maintaining extensive collaborations with national and international research units and industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

11 November 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

How long is the contract?

It is a full‑time position with an employment period of 2 years.

What documents must be submitted?

One PDF containing a cover letter, CV, academic diplomas (MSc/PhD in English) and a list of publications.

Is relocation support provided?

Information and support for relocating to Denmark are offered.

Who is the contact person for the position?

Professor Jennifer Martiny, email [email protected].