Researcher in Evolutionary Biology and Bioinformatics

We are seeking a highly motivated, independent, and creative bioinformatician with a strong interest in conservation genomics to join us from 1 April 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, for a 24‑month researcher fellowship.

The researcher will be part of the Evolutionary and Conservation Genomics Group research group led by Associate Prof. Hernán Morales within the Globe Institute Section for Hologenomics.

Project description

The project focuses on investigating how populations respond genetically and demographically to severe environmental changes and near‑extinction events. The project explores the limits of genetic rescue and restoration, producing high‑resolution datasets that integrate evolutionary biology, and conservation theory.

The ideal candidate is an analytical and freethinking independent researcher with demonstrated experience in population genomics, excellent computational skills, and a track record of developing new frameworks or methods in population genetics. A genuine interest in conservation and in bridging experimental and analytical approaches is essential.

Qualifications and key criteria for assessment

Applicants should hold a PhD in Population Biology, or a related field, have a strong background in computational biology/bioinformatics and experience in the following:

• Proficiency in R, SLiM, and C;

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills,

• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team

• Proven ability to coordinate closely with experimental researchers;

• Carrying through an independent research work;

• Working in an interdisciplinary research group;

• Teaching at University level;

• Participating in conferences or other types of dissemination activities;

• Proficiency in the English language, both written and spoken

  The candidate should have a strong interest in:

• integrating experimental data with statistical and evolutionary models, and in applying quantitative approaches to genomics‑based questions in conservation

• Because this project explicitly compares CRISPR‑mediated genomic edits, the position requires not only familiarity but active interest and demonstrated knowledge of the gene‑editing literature, including current debates on its use for conservation, theoretical fitness consequences of targeted edits, and emerging frameworks for assessing ecological viability of edited genomes. The candidate should be comfortable synthesizing gene‑editing discussions for conservation and theoretical projections;

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will lead computational, statistical, and simulation‑based analyses of large temporal genomic datasets generated throughout experimental evolution approaches. A strong foundation in inbreeding theory and demographic modelling is essential.

Close collaboration with experimental lab technicians will be essential to coordinate sampling schemes, align modelling assumptions, and integrate computational findings with empirical results. This position is ideal for a researcher who enjoys conceptual problem‑solving, bridging empirical and computational work, and contributing at the emerging interface between conservation genomics and gene‑editing technologies.

Place of employment

The place of employment is at the Globe Institute, Section for Hologenomics (Øster Voldgade 5-7, 1350, Copenhagen) Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include state-of-the-art core facilities including dedicated ancient DNA clean labs, modern DNA labs, an automated pipeline for DNA extraction and sequencing, and a constantly-expanding computer cluster.

About Globe Institute

The Globe Institute is part of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. The Institute’s main purpose is to address basic scientific questions through interdisciplinary approaches. The institute operates at the intersection of natural and medical sciences and the humanities. Information on the institute can be found at:http://www.globe.ku.dk/.

The Globe Institute is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment where employees and students can belong and thrive. Seewebsite for more information. All qualified applicants will receive full consideration. Candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, contribute to diversity and competencies of our Institute are encouraged to apply. The University of Copenhagen strives to offer a family friendly and flexible working environment with a sustainable balance between work- and private life, including parental leave schemes (up to 47 weeks for both parents) and up to six weeks of paid holidays per year. The university offers a variety of services for international researchers and accompanying families

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is a fixed-term position limited to a period of 24 months. The start date is 1 April 2026. The average weekly working hours are 37 hours per week.

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment according to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Letter of interest, outlining your motivation for applying and your suitability for the position
• Complete publication list

The deadline for applications is February 15 2026, 23:59 GMT +1.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process athttp://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 will be held on weeks 9 and 10