Postdoc researcher in Antimicrobial Peptide Nanoparticle Research

Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, invites applications for a position as Postdoctoral Researcher in Antimicrobial peptide and nanoparticle research from May 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position as postdoc is limited to a period of 24 months with a possible extension for an additional 12 months.

The Bioactive peptide group explores the potential of using peptides as drugs, drug carriers, or simple tools for understanding biological phenomena. The postdoc position is available for the current project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation with Håvard Jenssen as the main PI. The project aims to explore how natural antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), prevalent across various species, contribute to immunity. Despite decades of AMP research, a fundamental gap remains: understanding their transition between monomeric and aggregated states, a behavior potentially critical for their biological function. Our goal is to decode this aggregation process, examining both natural AMPs and synthetic analogues to harness their full therapeutic potential. This role involves synthesizing peptide-based amphiphiles, assembling nanoparticles, and conducting rigorous studies on peptide-membrane interactions. We utilize advanced structural characterization methods, notably small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS), to reveal molecular-level insights that are rarely applied in antibacterial research. With these methods, you’ll assess the structural dynamics, stability, and toxicity of both monomeric and assembled AMPs, aiming to deliver groundbreaking insights into peptide activity and transport, potentially translatable to therapeutic applications.

Responsibilities and tasks

• Develop and synthesize AMPs and peptoid analogues, assembling into nanoparticles and co-assemblies with polymers for controlled release.
• Conduct structural characterization of peptide assemblies using SAXS/SANS and analyze their interaction with model membranes under physiological conditions.
• Investigate the biological activity of AMPs against ESKAPE pathogens and assess toxicity on host cells and a skin organoid model.
• Contribute to the development of methods integrating small-angle scattering as a robust tool in biomedical research.
• Teaching/Supervision of BSc and MSc students working on related projects.

Qualifications
Applicants must hold a PhD Biophysics/Chemistry/Biochemistry/Biotechnology. Excellent command of the spoken and written English language is required. At least one, first author research publication is a prerequisite.

Qualifications within the following scientific areas are required:

• Experience in peptide synthesis, (assembling) nanomaterials, or antimicrobial research.
• Proficiency with advanced scattering techniques, and documented experience with SAXS/SANS.
• Familiarity with biochemical or microbiological assays for antimicrobial activity and toxicity evaluation.
• Strong publication records relevant to the research subject.
• Ability to write manuscripts at the publication-ready level.
• Motivation for interdisciplinary research and willingness to collaborate with colleagues in diverse disciplines.
• Strong oral and scientific writing skills.
• Motivation and experience in supervision and teaching of students.
• Ability to work independently and manage research projects.

As the research is at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and nanotechnology, we are seeking an experienced postdoctoral researcher. The ideal candidate shall be enterprising, possess good communication skills, be visible and involved. The project involves a broad collaborative network of researchers and disciplines primarily internationally, the candidate should therefore also be agile and willing to spend research time abroad.

Assessment
In the assessment of the candidates, consideration will be given to:

• scientific production and research topic
• experience with relevant methods
• research perspective and the ability to promote and utilize research results
• experience in teaching and education
• other academic experience
• ability to contribute to the development of the department’s internal and external cooperation

About the department
The Department of Science and Environment is one of four departments at Roskilde University. The Department conducts basic and applied research in molecular biology, medical biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and environmental sciences. Bachelor and Master programs are offered within these areas. Research and education within the fields take place in a collaborative and interdisciplinary university environment also spanning collaboration with the other departments covering social sciences and humanities where relevant. The department is organized into four sections comprising research and education activities.

Questions
For further information about the postdoc, please contact PI Håvard Jenssen, email: [email protected], phone: (+45) 4674 2877 or Head of Department Susanne Sørensen, email: [email protected].

Terms of employment
The employment is on full time, 37 hours per week and in the daily work you will refer to Professor Håvard Jenssen. Your head of staff will be Dean Susanne Sørensen.

The position will be filled according to the Agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) and Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities.

Application procedure
After the deadline for applications the Dean will shortlist applicants for assessment with assistance from the recruitment committee including the chairperson of the assessment committee.

Shortly after the application deadline all applicants will be notified whether or not their application has been selected for assessment.

The shortlisted applicants will be informed about the composition of the assessment committee, and each applicant will be given the opportunity to comment on the composition of the committee and - later on - their assessment.

Once the recruitment process is completed, all applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application.

Application
To apply for the position go to www.ruc.dk/en/job/

Only applications in English are accepted.

Applications must include:

1. Cover letter

2. CV

3. Documentation of education

4. Teaching portfolio (read more about teaching portfolio at Roskilde University here)

5. A complete list of publications

6. A maximum of 5 relevant scientific works that you want included in the assessment

If any of the publications that you want included in the assessment are the result of a joint effort, the extent and the nature of your contribution to each individual work must then be clarified in a co-author statement (find template here)

Please submit your application no later than March 2, 2025.

Material received after this date will not be taken into consideration.

Roskilde University wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.