Assistant professor in clinical translational research in obesity and type 2 diabetes

A full-time position as an assistant professor is vacant at the Research Unit of Steno Diabetes Center (SDCO), Odense University Hospital and at the Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark (SDU). 

The position is limited to 2 years with the possibility of extension. The position is available from October 1, 2024, or as soon as possible thereafter. 

One of the five strategic research areas for SDCO is the “Pathophysiology of Type 2 Diabetes”. This includes clinical translational research into novel molecular mechanisms in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle that underlie an increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. 

The Research Unit of SDCO seeks a strong candidate with a robust translational and mechanistic profile, and a demonstrated track record of publications and interdisciplinary collaborations. The focus should be on molecular mechanisms relevant to human fat distribution, adipose tissue dysfunction, insulin resistance and exercise biology within obesity, type 2 diabetes and other insulin resistant conditions. 

Technical expertise should include experience and knowledge in human metabolism and advanced molecular and cellular approaches, such as tissue culturing, in vitro genetic manipulations to study adipocyte and muscle biology and function related to altered metabolic pathways, signal transduction, or transcriptional regulation.  

Research and teaching

The main tasks of the assistant professor are research and research-based teaching, including exams.

Job description

The key responsibility is to undertake cutting-edge research addressing questions within the remit of the SDCO´s program package, “Pathophysiology of Type 2 Diabetes”. The successful candidate will develop a strong clinical translational research program in the fields of human fat distribution, adipose tissue dysfunction, exercise biology, insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, with a strong focus on mechanistic insights. The candidate must be able to demonstrate strong potential for obtaining independent funding or have a proven track record of securing such funding.

As an assistant professor, you will primarily work on furthering your own research, developing the scientific field, and activities in liaison with other colleagues at the SDCO, OUH and SDU. The position also involves research grant applications and research management, including supervision and training of research fellows (BSc., MSc, MD pre-graduates and Ph.D. students) and other staff. Additionally, you will teach, prepare for, and participate in examinations.

The candidate who is hired must complete a Lecturer Training Programme during the period of employment.

Expectation of qualifications

• A Ph.D.-degree in the fields of obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and human metabolism. 
• A strong CV, having published in international peer-reviewed journals within the fields of obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, metabolism, and exercise biology as first author, and presentations at international meetings. 
• An enthusiastic interest in cardiometabolic translational research 
• Postdoctoral research experience of research in an area relevant to the SDCO Research Theme “Pathophysiology of Type 2 Diabetes” 
• A previous stay abroad at least for 6 months. 
• Established collaboration with researchers within the research field.

Employment requires scientific qualifications at PhD level cf. applicable note on job structure for academic staff at universities.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from the Head of Research SDCO, Clinical professor Kurt Højlund, phone: +45 25320648, e-mail: [email protected] 

Conditions of employment

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC  (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).

Application

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link “Apply now” - see below.

We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Only applications written in English will be accepted for evaluation.

The application must include (as PDF files) (please note that the application (the motivation letter) and CV must not exceed 10 MB in total):

• A Cover letter
• A detailed CV 
• Copy of certificates/diplomas including evidence of acquisition of a PhD degree or equivalent
• A complete and numbered list of peer-reviewed publications
• The 3 scientific, peer-reviewed publications that the applicant wishes to be included in the assessment of his or her scientific qualifications. (Please note that one PDF or docx file must be attached for each publication).
• A teaching portfolio detailing the candidate’s prior teaching experience, teaching skills, and teaching philosophy.
• A research plan (max two pages), including an account of own research and a vision for future research in the research unit at the hospital.

Incomplete applications will not be assessed. 

Applications may be shortlisted.

Assessment of (shortlisted) applicants will be done in accordance with the current/applicable university recruitment order. Applicants will be assessed by an expert committee, and applicant will be informed of their assessment by the university.

If you experience technical problems, you must contact [email protected]

Living and working in Denmark

Foreign applicants will be offered Danish language training as part of the employment. The International Staff Office (ISO) at SDU provides a variety of services for new employees, guests and people who consider applying for a job at the University of Southern Denmark. 

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