Postdoc Position in Chemistry
University of Copenhagen
Denmark

Department: Chemistry, University of Copenhagen
Project: BEYOND ‒ Visible-light Photocatalysis in Prebiotic Chemistry (ERC Starting Grant)
Principal Investigator: Michael Martin Nielsen (mmn@chem.ku.dk, +45 53683130)
Location: Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
Application Deadline: 30 November 2025, 23:59 GMT +2
Employment Start: 1 April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
Duration: 2–3 years (possibility of 1-year extension)
Working Hours: Full-time

Project Description

This ERC-funded project explores how visible light could have driven key chemical transformations relevant to the origins of life. Unlike UV light, visible light is milder and more abundant on early Earth. The project investigates its ability to drive catalytic reaction cycles in aqueous solution, focusing on:

• Discovery and characterization of photoredox catalytic systems

• Redox reactions and simple oligomerizations

• Development of chemically and geochemically plausible prebiotic models

The postdoc will join a vibrant and growing team, collaborating closely with PhD and MSc/BSc students, and will have the opportunity to develop research leadership skills.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking an ambitious and independent postdoctoral researcher with:

• Expertise in photoredox catalysis and mechanistic photochemistry

• Strong motivation to lead and take ownership of a project

• Interest in mentoring PhD, MSc, and BSc students

• Ability to shape a research direction within the ERC project and potentially develop an independent research line

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent

• Fluency in English (written and spoken)

Candidates with prior publications, relevant work experience, and demonstrated leadership skills will be prioritized. Part-time teaching may be required, emphasizing communication and collaboration abilities.

Research Environment

Our group focuses on developing organic chemical transformations in water, with applications in:

• Origins-of-life chemistry

• Design of artificial enzymes using molecular imprinting technology

We foster a collaborative and supportive research culture, encouraging flexibility, creativity, and individual working methods. The lab currently has 8 members and is expanding under the ERC Starting Grant (2026). Scientists from all backgrounds and career stages are welcome.

Location: University of Copenhagen, centrally located in vibrant Nørrebro and Østerbro neighborhoods.

Terms of Employment

• The position follows the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff

• Salary and terms according to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State

• Salary supplements negotiable

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted electronically in English and include:

1. Curriculum vitae

2. Diplomas (Master’s and PhD or equivalent)

3. Research Statement – description of current and ongoing research, including long-term goals

4. Publication list

Applications will be reviewed by the recruitment manager and an interview committee. Interviews are scheduled for January 2026.

University of Copenhagen Recruitment Process

Equal Opportunity

The University of Copenhagen values diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

How to Apply

Submit your application electronically via the APPLY NOW button.

The University of Copenhagen is part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) and ranks among Europe’s top institutions, promoting research and teaching of the highest international standard in a collaborative, informal, and ambitious environment.

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