Postdoc in Epidemiology and diagnosis of large animal parasite infections

Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences
Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
University of Copenhagen

We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic postdoc for a 2-year position to commence 1 August 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The postdoc will be part of the Veterinary Parasitology (VETPAR) group, headed by Prof. Andrew Williams, in the Section for Parasitology and Pathobiology.

A list of the group’s publications can be found at: https://scholar.google.dk/citations?hl=en&user=70v-4RoAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate

Information on the department can be found at: ivh.ku.dk

Our group and research
Our section has a strong research tradition on integrated and sustainable control of parasitic diseases, including use of natural compounds, dietary interventions and drugs, and with population and infection biology of mainly helminths in domestic animals, including host immunity, parasite-induced immuno-modulation, epidemiology, pathogenesis, molecular genetics and diagnostics. The VETPAR group focuses on new opportunities for parasite surveillance and control on-farm and, particularly, in relation to health of free-roaming animals in nature reserves. We want to develop novel technologies as well as alternative preventive measures and treatment in practice. The group is a multidisciplinary team embedded within the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, with close links to other sections working on diseases, herd health and animals in grazing systems. The group is international in nature, and the daily working language is English.

Your job
In this position, you will work on projects related to diagnostics and epidemiology of helminth infections in both in cattle on-farm (EU-project) and in other species (horses, bisons etc.) in different grazing systems. We are particularly interested in improved non-invasive monitoring of parasite status. The main role of the postdoc will involve field sampling, developing and performing diagnostic tests as well as extensive data analysis, with a view to developing better preventive strategies. Other projects related to veterinary parasitology may be included. Furthermore, your duties will include (co-)supervision of PhD and MSc students, supporting the overall research goals of the group, and contributing to a positive and supportive group environment that emphasizes teamwork, curiosity and positivity.

The postdoc’s responsibilities will primarily consist of:

• research, including publication/academic dissemination duties
• limited research-based teaching and advisory services
• sharing knowledge with society

Furthermore, we are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with the following skills and experience:

Essential experience and skills:

• You have a PhD in the field of veterinary parasitology
• You have experience in experimental and field work with large animals and hold a FELASA accreditation or equivalent.
• You are experienced in traditional, molecular and immunological diagnostics of parasites, preferably in livestock, as well as competences in data analysis and presentation
• Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Proficient communication skills and ability to work in teams.
• Excellent English skills written and spoken.

Desirable experience and skills:

• You have an active interest in livestock and wild animal species in grazing systems
• Experience with handling of larger datasets
• Danish language skills and valid driver's license

Place of employment

The place of employment is at the Section for Parasitology and Aquatic Pathobiology, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include modern laboratories and animal experimentation facilities.

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.

The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week.

The position is a fixed-term position limited to a period of 2-years. The start date is 1 August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Salary, pension and other conditions of employment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant organisation.

Questions
For further information please contact Professor Stig M. Thamsborg smt@sund.ku.dk

Foreign applicants may find this link useful: www.ism.ku.dk (International Staff Mobility).

Application procedure
Your application must be submitted in English by clicking ‘Apply now’ below. Furthermore, your application must include the following documents/attachments – all in PDF format:

1. Motivated letter of application (Max. one page)
2. CV incl. education, work/research experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position
3. A certified/signed copy of a) PhD certificate and b) Master of Science certificate. If the PhD is not completed, a written statement from the supervisor on submission details will do
4. List of publications

Deadline for applications: 18 May 2026, 23.59 CEST.

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

The further process
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the hiring committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an unbiased assessor. Once the assessment work has been completed each applicant has the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that relates to the applicant him/herself.

You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/

The applicant will be assessed according to the Ministerial Order no. 242 of 13 March 2012 on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities.

Interviews are expected to be held in week 23, 2026.

The University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of personal background.