Postdoc in Computational Genomics
About the role
The University of Copenhagen is seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoc fellow to commence on November 15, 2026, or after agreement in the Kilpeläinen Group at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR).
Research Focus
The Kilpeläinen group investigates the genetic and biological mechanisms through which genetic variation influences cardiometabolic disease, with a particular focus on mechanisms operating in adipose tissue. Using large-scale human genetic and population datasets, the group aims to move beyond association discovery to identify the causal variants, genes, and molecular pathways underlying cardiometabolic risk.
Responsibilities
- Evaluate and apply computational and statistical methods for genetic association studies under complex data conditions, including extensive phenotype missingness and heterogeneity across biological or environmental contexts.
- Work with large-scale population and biobank datasets from multiple international cohorts, comparing and integrating modern imputation, prediction, and surrogate-based inference approaches to support uncertainty-aware genetic discovery.
- Contribute to methodological development, large-scale data analysis, simulation and benchmarking studies, and cross-cohort validation, including the integration of additional molecular data layers such as proteomics.
Qualifications
- PhD (or near completion) in bioinformatics, statistical genetics, computational biology, biostatistics, data science, epidemiology, or a related quantitative or life-science discipline.
- Strong scientific track record relative to career stage, demonstrated by publications, preprints, or substantial contributions to large collaborative projects.
- Solid background in statistical modeling, machine learning, or applied data analysis, with interest in genetic association studies and complex trait genetics.
- Experience working with large-scale datasets (e.g., biobank, omics, or electronic health record data) using programming languages such as Python, R, or similar.
- Familiarity with high-performance or cloud computing environments and reproducible research practices.
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment.
- Excellent English communication skills, both written and oral.
Eligibility
- The Postdoc fellowships within the CBMR International PhD & Postdoc Program are open for applicants with a PhD degree awarded from a university outside of Denmark.
- The program is also open for applicants with a Danish PhD degree who can document at least 12 months of full-time research experience from outside Denmark during or after the PhD studies.
- The PhD degree has to be obtained before November 15, 2026.
- You are not eligible to apply for the program if you have been employed in a postdoctoral position for more than one year at the University of Copenhagen prior to the commencement of the fellowship.
Terms of Employment
- The employment as Postdoc is a full-time position for 2 years.
- Starting date is November 15, 2026, or after agreement.
- Salary, pension and terms of employment will be in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).
- Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated.
Application Procedure
Your Online Application Must Be Submitted In English Via The ‘Apply For Position’ Link Below. Furthermore, Your Application Must Include The Following Documents/attachments – All In PDF Format:
- Cover letter expressing the motivation and previous research experience of the applicant (max. one page)
- Copy of the PhD degree certificate and the Master’s degree certificate. In case the PhD has not yet been completed, a written statement from the supervisor confirming the PhD degree will be obtained before November 15, 2026, is necessary.
- List of publications
- (Name and contact details of at least two references)
Contact Information
For further information about the position, please contact Associate Professor Tuomas Kilpeläinen, tuomas.kilpelainen@sund.ku.dk.
Questions regarding the CBMR International PhD & Postdoc Program must be directed to Senior Advisor Sarah Christoffersen at sarah.christoffersen@sund.ku.dk.
For questions regarding the recruitment procedure, please contact HR at hr-cbmr@adm.ku.dk.