Postdoc in brain cancer research

Are you passionate about advancing treatments for brain cancer? Do you have hands-on experience in cell biology and laboratory research? 

Join our innovative team at the Research Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) from October 1, 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter and for a period of two years. 

About us

Our Preclinical Research Group is a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of experts in radiochemistry, nuclear physics, biomedicine, and molecular biology. We are committed to developing innovative radiopharmaceuticals for PET imaging and receptor-targeted precision radiotherapies using unconventional radionuclides.

Our mission

We aim to revolutionize the treatment of aggressive cancers, including brain and breast cancer, through theranostic technologies and novel drug delivery methods. Our research focuses on targeted radioactive molecules that deliver precise radiation doses to eradicate cancer cells at the single-cell level.

The position

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in a research project funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark: "Glioblastoma stem cell eradication by targeted Auger radiotherapy." This project, in collaboration with the Hevesy Laboratory at the Technical University of Denmark (Dr. Andreas Jensen), investigates the potential of a new radiopharmaceutical to eradicate resistant brain cancer stem cells in vitro and in animal models. As a postdoc in our group, you will work with an interdisciplinary team on radiopharmaceutical development.

The two-year position is available immediately. If you are highly motivated, dedicated, and ambitious, we encourage you to apply. 

Qualifications

We seek highly motivated, dedicated, and ambitious scientists with:

• A PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biomedicine, or a related field.
• Experience with cell culturing and modern techniques in cell biology.
• Strong communication and collaborative skills, and a willingness to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Full proficiency in spoken and written English.

Experience with the following is advantageous:

• Handling of radioisotopes.
• Radiobiology.
• Cancer stem cells and stem cell markers.
• Laboratory animal handling (FELASA ABD certified).

Research environment

Our research unit, based at the Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital (OUH), is a leader in radiopharmaceutical development for cancer treatment. We collaborate with various departments at OUH, SDU, and national and international partners.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our advanced facilities for radiopharmaceutical development include:

• Radiopharmaceutical and radiochemical laboratories.
• Two cyclotrons for radioisotope production, including radiometals.
• A dedicated cell laboratory for studying diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals.
• Preclinical imaging on animal models using a specialized PET/CT/SPECT scanner and soon, a PET/MR scanner at the Danish Molecular Bioimaging Center (DaMBIC). 
• Five PET/CT scanners and one PET/MR scanner for advanced molecular imaging.

Collaborative environment

We offer a stimulating and collaborative research environment with opportunities for professional growth in radiopharmaceutical research. Our unit provides extensive support and expertise in radiochemistry, molecular biology, and the production of new radiopharmaceutical compounds.

Why join us?

• Work in a dynamic and supportive research environment.
• Collaborate with leading scientists in the field.
• Contribute to groundbreaking research with a significant impact on cancer treatment.

Contact information:

For inquiries, please contact Associate Professor, Head of Preclinical Research Helge Thisgaard ([email protected]) at the University of Southern Denmark.

Join us in our mission to develop innovative treatments that can save lives!

Conditions of employment

The employment takes place in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Central Organisation of the Academics.

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 stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages).
• A CV 
• Copies of certificates/diplomas including evidence of acquisition of a PhD degree or equivalent
• A complete and numbered list of publications
• The up to 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 file must be attached for each publication).

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.