Postdoc in spatial analysis of microenvironmental cancer drivers

Organisation/Company University of Copenhagen Research Field Biological sciences Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Country Denmark Application Deadline 14 Jan 2026 - 23:00 (UTC) Type of Contract To be defined Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week To be defined Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description TheSandelin and Falsig Pedersen groups are seeking atalented and motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic, interdisciplinary team working at the interface ofcomputational biology, genomics, and molecular cancer physiology . Our laboratories aims to understand howbiophysical microenvironments such aspH and oxygen (O₂) gradients shapecellular phenotypes and gene regulation in vivo , with a focus onpancreatic cancer . The position is for 2 years with possibility for extension and will be taking place physically in the Sandelin and Falsig Pedersen laboratories, which are closely located at University of Copenhagen. Tumor microenvironment acidosis favors pancreatic cancer stem cell properties and in vivo metastasis (iScience 2025, doi: /j.isci.2025) Adaptation to an acid microenvironment promotes pancreatic cancer organoid growth and drug resistance ( Cell Reports 2024. doi: /j.celrep. ) Project focus Thebiophysical microenvironment of tumors is an underexplored determinant of cancer progression and metastasis. Regions oflow pH and/or low oxygen are common in solid tumors and may drive adaptive programs that enhance malignancy. We have previously shown thatin vitro adaptation to acidic pH confers cancer hallmarks (Cell Reports 2024), and that these traits persist in vivo, correlating withworse clinical outcomes (iScience 2025). In this project, we will investigate whether similar adaptations occurin vivo and how they relate tooxygen levels andtumor aggressiveness . Usingimaging-based measurements of pH and O₂ in mouse tumor models , we will integrate these readouts withspatially resolved single-cell transcriptomics to identifyniche-specific gene programs . Combined withfunctional validation , this integrative approach will reveal how microenvironmental gradients shape gene expression anddrive tumor progression . Qualifications Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) aPhD in biology, bioinformatics, genomics, or molecular physiology . We particularly welcome candidates with: Expertise inexperimental genomics ,cell biology and advanced live imaging techniques , and/orcomputational analysis of spatial omics data — experience in two or more of these areas is highly advantageous Knowledge of cancer biology is a large advantage A strong publication record, includingone or more first-author papers in reputable journals in genomics, bioinformatics, or cancer biology Excellent written and spoken English , with demonstrated ability in scientific writing and presentations Responsibilities The postdoctoral fellow will conduct independent and collaborative research within the project’s scope and may also contribute toteaching and supervision within the department. The position is open from April 1 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background. Terms of employment The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff. Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY FOR POSITION below. Please include Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent) Letter of interest, outlining your motivation for applying and your suitability for the position The deadline for applications is 14 January 2026, 23:59 GMT After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee. #J-18808-Ljbffr