Vacant project manager position for the translational activities within the Ancient Environmental Genomics Initiative for Sustainability (AEGIS)

The Ancient Environmental Genomics Initiative for Sustainability (AEGIS) has a vacant position as project manager for the translational activities. The position is temporary for 3 years starting April 1st, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Background

AEGIS is a pioneering research centre headed by prof. Eske Willerslev that brings together a highly interdisciplinary and international team of world-leading research groups with a shared vision of developing more robust, sustainable, and biodiverse crops and agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of climate change on global food production: https://novonordiskfonden.dk/en/news/climate-resilient-crops-novo-nordisk-foundation-and-the-wellcome-trust-award-a-grant-of-up-to-dkk-585-million-to-the-ancient-environmental-genomics-initiative-for-sustainability/.

AEGIS combines the fields of ancient environmental DNA, genomics, metagenomics, informatics and biostatistics, evolutionary biology, ecology, geology, archaeology, plant engineering, and agricultural crop research. We will collect and work on geological sediments, bones, fossils and material from contemporary species from more than 200 different locations around the world to generate and analyse vast amounts of ancient and contemporary environmental DNA and other ancient and modern biomolecular - data and associated contextual data.

The position

We are seeking a highly qualified, motivated, and dedicated full-time project manager to oversee the coordination of translational activities within AEGIS. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from individuals committed to advancing innovative solutions to global challenges. The successful candidate will lead efforts to translate bioinformatic discoveries from ancient environmental DNA analyses into impactful applications for modern agriculture. This role will focus on advancing sustainable practices by developing climate-resilient crops such as barley, rice, and wheat, as well as designing and managing experiments that recreate ancient microbial ecosystems

The position includes the following essential functions:

• Develop and implement plans to ensure effective collaboration among AEGIS partners and stakeholders, aligning bioinformatic discoveries with translational goals in crop improvement and ancient microbe studies.

• Coordinate workflows between AEGIS partners and external collaborators, integrating expertise across bioinformatics, crop science, microbiology, and related fields to achieve project objectives.
• Create and implement SOPs to streamline workflows, ensure reproducibility, and support efficient collaboration across AEGIS partners. Track project progress, anticipate challenges, and address bottlenecks to maintain momentum and deliver results efficiently.

Required skills and qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Agricultural Science, Bioinformatics, or a related field with a focus on translational research or applied science.

• Demonstrated experience in identifying and validating traits from genomic or bioinformatic analyses, including familiarity with gene editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 for crop improvement.

• Self-motivated, highly organized, and proactive with a strong professional ethic and excellent time management skills.

• Excellent spoken and written English communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Preferred skills and capabilities

• Experience with plant breeding, translational genomics, or functional validation pipelines.

• Knowledge of microbial ecology, synthetic biology, or microcosm experiments involving microbial communities.

• Experience communicating with collaborators, industry partners, and stakeholders to align research objectives with broader project goals.

• Familiarity with implementing novel technologies or workflows in agricultural or microbial research.

Terms of employment

The position will be as either Academic Staff or Special Consultant, depending on background and experience of the chosen candidate, and salary level will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). The monthly salary will be based on the number of years of work experience (seniority) with the possibility to negotiate a salary supplement based on prior experiences and qualifications. The employer will pay an additional 17.1 % to your pension fund.

Workplace

The workplace is at the AEGIS main hub hosted at the Section for GeoGenetics, Globe Institute, Øster Voldgade 5-7, 1350 Copenhagen K.

We offer a highly dynamic work environment driven by creativity and high ambitions.

The position is an integral part of a growing team that coordinates, manages and supports the multi-disciplinary activities and projects across AEGIS headed by Line Olsen who is the program manager for AEGIS.

The Globe Institute is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment where employees and students can belong and thrive. See website for more information. All qualified applicants will receive full consideration. Candidates who, through their service, contribute to diversity and competencies of our Institute are encouraged to apply.

The University of Copenhagen strives to offer a family friendly and flexible working environment with a sustainable balance between work- and private life.

How to Apply

If you find the job interesting, please send an electronic application, CV and a certified/signed copy of certificate(s) of education by clicking on “Apply Now” below.

Application deadline: 16 February 2025, 23.59 CET

For enquiries or further questions, please contact program manager Line Olsen, phone: +45 5363 4806, email: [email protected] or ass. prof. Antonio Fernandez Guerra, phone: +45 53673533, email [email protected]

The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background