6 Postdoctoral and PhD positions in Center for Epigenetic Cell Memory (EpiC)

The Center for Epigenetic Cell Memory (EpiC) is a new Center of Excellence that will be established based on funding by the Danish National Research Foundation. Together EpiC researchers aim to understand mechanisms that underpin epigenetic cell memory and how cell proliferation drive cell plasticity and cell fate decisions in development, aging and cancer. EpiC will have a strong focus on molecular understanding and development/ implementation of cutting-edge new technologies to break new ground.

As part of the launch of EpiC in June 2025, there will be 6 funded postdoctoral (3 years) and PhD (3 years) positions available. The successful applicants will have excellent opportunities to acquire expertise in and apply a broad panel of state-of-the-art technologies, including high-resolution and single cell functional genomics, advanced CRISPR screening, and in silico protein modelling.

EpiC unites four research groups with leading expertise across epigenetics, 3D genome, genome stability, cell division, and complementary technological strongholds: Prof. Anja Groth (Center Director), Prof. Niels Mailand, Prof. Jakob Nilsson and Associate Prof. Nils Kritenstein.

Our research groups are diverse and multidisciplinary with many scientific collaborations nationally and internationally, and we offer an inclusive and highly collaborative work culture. We value idea sharing, and EpiC will use Creative Problem Solving tools to develop our research projects and stimulate innovation. We also have a translational focus towards developing new therapeutic opportunities and better lives for cancer patients.

About us
EpiC will be hosted in newly established state-of-the-art laboratories at the Danish Cancer Institute (DCI) and offers a vibrant, highly international and collaborative research environment, outstanding core facilities and a strong commitment to sustainable research.

The place of employment is at the Danish Cancer Institute (DCI), Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen. DCI is committed to leading the way in cancer research, focusing on innovative excellence in technology innovation and application. As an integral part of the Danish Cancer Society, we are working to reduce cancer risks, advance early diagnostics, develop novel therapeutic solutions, and improve patients’ lives. We function as a cross-collaborative international cancer research institute with an interdisciplinary and translational agenda, based on excellent research within basic biology and epidemiology. DCI features 23 research groups and a range of core facilities.

About the position
Research projects in EpiC will interrogate epigenome maintenance mechanisms and dynamics across scales from histone building blocks to 3D chromosome organization during normal and stressed cell cycles, with an aim to drive a holistic understanding of how epigenomes are inherited and how cell proliferation influences epigenome fidelity and cell plasticity.

The following project areas will be available:

• Groth group:  Histone-based inheritance and replication stress in cell memory and plasticity
• Mailand group:  CRISPR screening-based profiling of histone biogenesis and heterochromatin maintenance networks
• Nilsson group:  Epigenome maintenance during cell division
• Krietenstein group:  3D genome plasticity and dynamics

Our projects will be conducted jointly between our groups. Applicants are encouraged to describe their scientific interests and potential project or EpiC group preferences in their motivation letter.

Your profile
We are looking for highly motivated and enthusiastic scientists with the following competencies and experience:

• A PhD degree (postdoctoral positions), Master’s degree (PhD positions) or equivalent in a related area of life science, molecular biology, biochemistry, computational biology or related
• A background in chromatin biology, DNA replication and repair, cell cycle research and/or stem cell biology is an advantage
• Experience with functional genomics, genetic screening and/or bioinformatics is a plus
• Collaborative and inclusive mindset and curiosity driven nature, including the ability to work well in international academic settings
• Good communication and organization skills, and the potential to work independently
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

We offer
Working hours are 37 hours per week incl. lunch. Salary and pension will be according to the current agreement between the Danish Cancer Society and the relevant trade union. The starting date is 1st June 2025 or later by agreement.

Candidates for PhD positions will initially be employed as research assistants to allow time for enrollment as PhD students at the University of Copenhagen. Candidates are expected to write their PhD application with support from their supervisor.

DCI offers a dynamic international research environment with a range of social activities. We have a canteen, fruit scheme, sports and arts society, and working hours are of course smoke-free.

Additional information
For further information about the positions, please contact Anja Groth ([email protected]). Do not send your applications directly, only applications submitted by the electronic application system are accepted.

Application
The application deadline is 1st April 2025.

Applications should include:

• A letter of motivation, with header indicating PhD or Postdoc position 
• Curriculum Vitae with a publication list and 3 named references
• Relevant certificates/diplomas

We only accept electronic applications submitted via the link 'Apply for position'.