PhD Position in Algorithmic Cheminformatics

Application deadline: 15 September 2025 at 23:59 hours local Danish time
A PhD position starting November 1, 2025 (with some flexibility in both directions) is available at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) for research in an exciting project in algorithmic aspects of cheminformatics. The position is founded by the Challenge Programme of the Novo Nordisk Foundation: “Mathematical Modelling for Microbial Community Induced Metabolic Diseases”, led by Prof. Daniel Merkle.

The overall research project is based on the novel application of formalisms, algorithms, and computational methods from computer science to the design of microbial communities, ultimately for use in health science. The goal of this PhD project is to expand on these computational methods and their formal foundations and to create efficient algorithms and implementations of them.

We are seeking an excellent and highly motivated individual with a MSc degree in computer science or a related subject. The ideal candidate has strong familiarity with one or more of the following areas: algorithmics, graph transformation and algorithm engineering. Exposure to systems chemistry or systems biology is an asset but not a must. Proven competences in programming and ease with formal thinking are a necessity.

The research group in Algorithmic Cheminformatics at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at SDU offers a dynamic research environment, comprising two full professors, one associate professor, one assistant professor, one postdoc, and a large number of PhD students.

The project includes strong partnerships with the University of Leipzig (Bioinformatics, Prof. Peter Stadler), the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research in Leipzig (Molecular Systems Biology, Prof. Martin von Bergen) and the University of Vienna (Department of Theoretical Chemistry, Prof. Christoph Flamm), who may potentially host the PhD student for research visits.

The research group is located at the main campus of SDU, which is located in Odense, the third largest city in Denmark. Denmark is known for its high standards of living, free health care, and competitive salaries, including at the PhD level.

For further information contact professor Rolf Fagerberg (email: rolf@imada.sdu.dk)

Application, salary etc.
Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period.(the 5+3 programme).
Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the homepage of the University.

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

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages) .
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades.
• The names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) of at least two referees details for at least 2 referees who can vouch for your skills.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

Applications should be sent electronically via the link "Apply now". The faculty expects applicants to read the information "How to apply for a position at SDU" before applying. Please note that the application documents should be in pdf-format and attached as three documents: motivation letter, CV and the remaining documents.

We recommend that as an international applicant you take the time to visit Work in Denmark where you will find information and facts about moving to, working and living in Denmark, as well as the International Staff Office at SDU.

Placering: Odense M, Denmark