PhD Scholarship in Supramolecular Chemistry at DTU
A 3-year PhD scholarship in supramolecular chemistry and self-assembly is available in the group of Prof. Sophie Beeren at the Technical University of Denmark in collaboration with Prof E. W. Bert Meijer at the Technical University of Eindhoven. Join this team to explore the synthesis and assembly of carbohydrate-based supramolecular polymers. In contrast to traditional polymeric materials built by covalent linking of monomers, supramolecular polymers are dynamic and formed by the self-assembly of monomeric units brought together by non-covalent interactions. The connections between the monomers are reversible, making these polymer materials adaptive, healable, easy to process and recyclable. In this project, you will explore new types of stimuli-responsive supramolecular polymers that employ carbohydrate-based monomers, working towards the synthesis of new ‘smart’, sustainable and biodegradable materials.
Responsibilities and qualifications
The project will take advantage of enzyme-mediated dynamic combinatorial chemistry in a biotechnological approach to oligosaccharide synthesis - combining supramolecular chemistry and enzymology. This methodology will be used towards the synthesis of building blocks for non-covalent assembly supramolecular polymers.
Your work would include:
- the design, organic synthesis and characterisation of monomeric molecular building blocks;
- enzymatic synthesis and analysis of dynamic systems of oligosaccharides;
- biophysical studies using spectroscopy (NMR, UV-Vis, fluorescence and CD spectroscopy) to investigate conformation, binding phenomena and self-assembly;
- characterization of supramolecular polymers, their assembly, triggered disassembly, structure and properties.
Active dissemination of the results obtained, in scientific articles and through participation in international conferences, is an integral part of the job.
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 in chemistry with a focus on synthetic organic chemistry.
Additionally, experience working with spectroscopy (NMR, UV-Vis, fluorescence, CD), chromatographic analysis (HPLC) and mass spectrometry is an advantage. Most importantly, you should be highly motivated, able to work independently, and should be very confident in both written and spoken English. You should strive towards scientific excellence, be ambitious and hard-working.
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 Professor Sophie Beeren.
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.
Preferred starting date is November 15th 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.
Further information
Further questions about the project should be directed to Associate Professor Sophie Beeren, email: sopbeebarkeremilystacey98@kemi.dtu.dkharper-holden.dkkrause-beck.dkcohen.dk
You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk/english.
Information about the research team can be found at www.kemi.dtu.dk/sophiebeeren
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 than19 September 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
- Contact details for at least two academic references.
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.
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.