PhD Scholarship in Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals - DTU Food
We are seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. candidate for a project to explore multidisciplinary approaches to grouping of endocrine disrupting chemical substances. The project combines application of (Quantitative) Structure-Activity Relationships ((Q)SARs), molecular docking, and experimental results to develop and scientifically justify assessment of groups of substances which may contribute for example to design of more safe and sustainable substances (SSbD), assessment of combined chemical exposures (‘cocktail effects’), and more efficient regulation of chemicals.
This PhD project combines research in two high-priority areas for the Danish and EU authorities, namely endocrine disruption and grouping approaches for assessment and regulation. By joining this project, you will contribute to paving the way for future hazard- and risk assessment of chemicals.
The interdisciplinary approach and strong focus on developing solutions to real-world challenges in this PhD project is enabled via close collaboration between 3 research groups in DTU (Research group for Chemical Risk Assessment and GMO, Research group for Molecular and Reproductive Toxicology and Research group on Environmental Contamination & Chemicals) and national authorities.
Specific tasks include, but are not limited to:
- Develop (Q)SAR models and use of predictions in development and refinement of groups of substances
- Search the literature and extract relevant information related to endocrine disruption (in vitro and in vivo ) and toxicokinetics
- Perform targeted in vitro testing for filling data gaps and explore trends across the group
- Perform simulations and laboratory studies on biodegradation
- Perform molecular docking during international stay at the Pharmacoinformatics Research Group at the University of Vienna
Responsibilities and qualifications
You are expected to carry out independent research under the guidance of your supervisors, including those described above. Other responsibilities include:
- Complete courses required for the fulfilment of the Ph.D.-programme at DTU (~30 ECTS).
- Write scientific papers and present your work at local, national, and international meetings and conferences.
- Undertake a research placement abroad for 3-5 months.
- Write a Ph.D.-thesis for the completion of the Ph.D. candidature.
We are looking for a candidate who has:
- A master’s degree in computational toxicology (QSAR), toxicology, pharmacy, chemistry, biology or another relevant scientific area and a strong interest in endocrine disruptors and application of computational toxicology
- Strong analytical skills and interest in interdisciplinary, real-world problem solving with regulatory aspects
- Skills for database handling and IT on a user level
- Strong English language skills, verbal and written
- Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Approval and Enrolment The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education .
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by a panel consisting of Ana Caroline Vasconcelos Engedal Nissen (main supervisor), Marta Zofia Axelstad Petersen (co-supervisor) and Rune Hjorth (co-supervisor), Nikolai Georgiev Nikolov (senior researcher), Eva Bay Wedebye (Head of Research group) and Marie Louise Holmer (senior officer). The assessment will focus on the candidate’s academic qualifications, relevant technical, analytical and collaborative skills, ability to work across disciplines, and motivation for contributing to the development of future hazard and risk assessment.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
Starting date is 1 January 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here .
Further information
Further information may be obtained from main supervisor Ana Nissen, National Food Institute, DTU, email: smithadamstevensjohndustinjohnsonacvma@lyons-golden.dkandrews.dkfood.dtu.dkmueller.dk , phone: +45 91370087, or head of research group Eva Bay Wedebye, National Food Institute, DTU, email: ebawebowenkathysmithalan@carson.dkfood.dtu.dkcombs.dk phone: +45 35887442.
You can read more about DTU National Food Institute at https://www.food.dtu.dk/english/
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than6 October 2025 (23:59 Danish time) .
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
- List of 2-3 references that may be contacted by the assessment panel during the interview process.
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
DTU National Food Institute
DTU National Food Institute conducts research into and disseminates - through advice, innovation and teaching - sustainable and value-creating solutions in the area of food and health for the benefit of society. The vision is to make a difference by generating future prosperity through research into food and health. The institute works to prevent disease and promote health, develop new and better food products for a growing population and create sustainable technological solutions, including biosolutions. The institute’s tasks are carried out in interdisciplinary collaboration within e.g. nutrition, chemistry, toxicology, microbiology, epidemiology, modelling, and technology. This is achieved through a strong academic environment of international top class with correspondingly skilled researchers and employees. The Institute employs approximately 350 staff members.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.