PhD Position: Algorithmic Cheminformatics at SDU

A PhD position starting November 1, 2025 (with some flexibility in both directions) is available at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) for research in an exciting project in algorithmic aspects of cheminformatics. The position is founded by the Challenge Programme of the Novo Nordisk Foundation: “Mathematical Modelling for Microbial Community Induced Metabolic Diseases”, led by Prof. Daniel Merkle.

The overall research project is based on the novel application of formalisms, algorithms, and computational methods from computer science to the design of microbial communities, ultimately for use in health science. The goal of this PhD project is to expand on these computational methods and their formal foundations and to create efficient algorithms and implementations of them.

We are seeking an excellent and highly motivated individual with a MSc degree in computer science or a related subject. The ideal candidate has strong familiarity with one or more of the following areas: algorithmics, graph transformation and algorithm engineering. Exposure to systems chemistry or systems biology is an asset but not a must. Proven competences in programming and ease with formal thinking are a necessity.

The research group in Algorithmic Cheminformaticsat the Department of Mathematics and Computer Scienceat SDU offers a dynamic research environment, comprising two full professors, one associate professor, one assistant professor, one postdoc, and a large number of PhD students.

The project includes strong partnerships with the University of Leipzig (Bioinformatics, Prof. Peter Stadler), the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research in Leipzig (Molecular Systems Biology, Prof. Martin von Bergen) and the University of Vienna (Department of Theoretical Chemistry, Prof. Christoph Flamm), who may potentially host the PhD student for research visits.

The research group is located at the main campus of SDU, which is located in Odense, the third largest city in Denmark. Denmark is known for its high standards of living, free health care, and competitive salaries, including at the PhD level.

Application deadline: 15 September 2025 at 23:59 hours local Danish time

Please see the full call, including how to apply, onwww.sdu.dk