Postdoc in Computational Spatial Proteomics and Multiomics Integration

The Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Computational Spatial Proteomics and Multi-Omics Integration, starting 1 September 2026 (or as soon as possible before or thereafter). The position is a fixed-term, full-time appointment for 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Place of employment

The Department of Biomedicine prioritizes diversity and a supportive work environment as a foundation for groundbreaking research. In its international research community, scientists generate new knowledge in areas such as cancer, inflammation, neuroscience, and personalized medicine. The department provides high-quality research-based teaching and contributes substantially to the medical degree programme. With around 500 employees from across the world, researchers benefit from modern laboratory, core, and animal facilities. The department also emphasizes innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration with industry to translate scientific discoveries into new medical treatments. You can read more about the department here and about the faculty here.

Our group and research

Join our newly established spatial proteomics group, supported by a prestigious LEO Foundation Dr. Abilgaard Fellowship. You will work within a vibrant international team with direct access to state-of-the-art lab platforms (including MACSima multiplexed imaging, LMD7 laser microdissection, Orbitrap Ascend mass spectrometry and timsTOF fleX MALDI-2) and collaborations with world-leading proteomics and dermatology experts. This is your chance to drive high-impact discoveries, co-author top-tier papers, mentor emerging talent, and shape the spatial omics' landscape at one of Denmark's premier biomedical hubs with exceptional work-life balance.

About the research project

The project addresses skin cancers and chronic inflammatory/fibrotic skin diseases using the cutting-edge spatial proteomics platform. You will integrate 3D and multiplexed imaging, deep proteomics, metabolomics, metaproteomics, and machine learning (ML) approaches to develop diagnostic classifiers, spatial tissue atlases, and identify potential therapeutic targets. The project includes collaboration with leading international experts in proteomics and dermatology and provides access to modern research facilities. The principal investigator is Assistant Professor Xiang Zheng.

Your job responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, your role will be primarily research-based. You will contribute to the development of the department through research of high international quality. Your main tasks will consist of:

• Conducting independent research of high international quality, including publication in leading journals
• Performing advanced spatial data analysis, including modelling of cell–cell interactions, cell-state transitions, and tissue dynamics and multi-omics integration
• Applying ML approaches for biomarker discovery, predictive modelling, and development of diagnostic classifiers
• Collaborating closely with bioinformatics cores and international project partners
• Mentoring PhD students and contributing to grant applications

You will report to the Assistant Professor Xiang Zheng.

Your competences

You have academic qualifications at PhD level, for example within computational biology, bioinformatics, spatial omics, or related areas. Experience with computational imaging methods, omics data analysis, and spatial tools is highly valued. Programming expertise in Python and/or R is essential.

As a person you demonstrate high ambitions. You are equally innovative – and result driven. You demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively on multidisciplinary teams and collaborations.

In order to be assessed as qualified for a Postdoc position, you must meet these academic criteria.

Shortlisting will be used.

Questions about the position

If you have any questions about the position, please contact Dr. Xiang Zheng, bakerstephaniexiang.zhengnavarrojessica@markskempbiomed.au.dk.  or +45 5522 6881. Your place of work will be the Department of Biomedicine, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 10, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.

We expect to conduct interviews in June 2026.

Terms of employment

• Appointment as a postdoc requires academic qualifications at PhD level.
• Further information on the appointment procedure can be found in the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities.
• The appointment is in accordance with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (Akademikerne).
• Remuneration is in accordance with the above, and the Salary agreement catalogue for staff at Health.
• The yearly base salary for a fulltime postdoc is between DKK 484.214,84 and DKK 538.720,20 depending on the years of working experience after achieved MSc degree. The base salary includes a position related supplement and pension (17.1 %). Additional supplement(s) for special qualifications can be negotiated. Authorisation supplemement(s) will be granted, if relevant for the position. Your local eligible trade union representative at Aarhus University negotiates your salary on your behalf.
• Researchers recruited from abroad are offered a special researcher tax scheme with a lower tax rate.
• Further information on qualification requirements and job description can be found in the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff

Application

Your application must include the following:

• Motivated application
• Curriculum Vitae
• Diploma
• Template for applicant - postdoc
• A list of publications
• A teaching portfolio. We refer to Guideline on the use of teaching portfolios
• A maximum of five of the publications of greatest relevance to the job may be submitted (optional)
• Research plan can be uploaded (optional)
• Coauthor statement(s) can be uploaded (optional)
• References/recommendations can be uploaded separately in the e-recruitment system (optional)

We refer to the faculty’s Guidelines for applicants.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

International applicant?

Aarhus University offers a broad variety of services for international researchers and accompanying families, including assistance with relocation and career counselling to expat partners. Please find more information about the International Staff Office and the range of services here. Aarhus University also has a Junior Researcher Association and offers career development support. You can read more about these resources here.

The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.

Aarhus University

Aarhus University is an academically diverse and research-intensive university with a strong commitment to high-quality research and education and the development of society nationally and globally. The university offers an inspiring research and teaching environment to its 37,000 students (FTEs) and 8.700 employees and has an annual revenue of EUR 1.106 billion. Learn more at www.international.au.dk/