Sequencing Platform and Service Manager at Section of Microbiology

Department of Biology at Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen is looking for a Sequencing platform and service manager with effect from 1 December 2026.

About us
At the Section of Microbiology, we are working to understand and exploit the immense functional diversity and adaptive potential of natural microbial communities using cutting-edge molecular techniques including high throughput DNA sequencing, cell-sorting, single-cell detection, and real time biofilm formation at the Bioflux centre.

Tasks
The position is for coordinating sequencing operations and laboratory workflows into a broader role combining service management, method development, data management, customer coordination, technical advisory functions, and platform administration.

Your tasks will include

• Managing sequencing service contracts, including coordination with internal and external stakeholders and follow-up on service delivery.
• Acting as the main contact person for sequencing platform providers and coordinating technical and operational matters related to the platforms.
• Developing and implementing new analytical protocols, including workflows for 16S sequencing and analysis using PacBio.
• Taking responsibility for sequencing data storage, organization, management, and accessibility.
• Performing and overseeing data cleaning and preparation as part of the sequencing and analysis workflow.
• Serving as the direct contact for external customers and collaborators, including coordination of sequencing requests, requirements, timelines, and technical questions.
• Developing, updating, and providing guidance on laboratory and sequencing protocols to ensure consistent procedures and quality.
• Providing technical advice to service users and colleagues on DNA-related techniques, sample preparation, sequencing requirements, and troubleshooting.

We expect

• A relevant Master's degree or equivalent academic qualification within, for example, microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Practical experience with molecular biology and DNA-based laboratory methods, including DNA extraction, sample preparation, PCR, and sequencing workflows.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing technologies and preferably both short- and long-read sequencing approaches.
• Experience with or knowledge of amplicon sequencing, particularly 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Experience with PacBio sequencing is an advantage.
• Experience with sequencing data handling, quality control, organization, and management.
• Experience coordinating technical services, laboratory workflows, research infrastructure, platforms, or projects.
• The ability to advise researchers and service users on technical questions and translate scientific requirements into practical workflows.
• Good IT and data-management skills. Experience with bioinformatic workflows or sequencing-data analysis is an advantage.
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English.

We offer
We offer an independent and varied position in an internationally oriented research environment where you will have the opportunity to contribute directly to the development and operation of sequencing services and research infrastructure.
You will work closely with researchers, technical staff, students, external collaborators, service users, and technology providers and will have opportunities to develop your expertise within sequencing technologies, laboratory and analytical workflows, data management, and research infrastructure management.

The Section of Microbiology provides a collaborative working environment with access to advanced technologies and research activities spanning microbial ecology, microbiomics, microbial interactions, environmental microbiology, and related areas.

Place of employment
The place of employment is at Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in dynamic and international research environment.

Terms of salary and employment
The position is full-time with an average working time of 37 hours per week. The position is a fixed-term position limited to a period of 1 year. The starting date is 1 December 2026 or by agreement.

Employment will be as Special Consultant under The Circular on the Collective Agreement concerning Academics in the state sector concluded between the Danish Ministry of Finance and Akademikerne (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). There will be an opportunity to negotiate supplements based on qualifications. You can read more about salary levels in the state sector (in Danish). 

Your application
If you are interested in the position, please submit your electronic application, including attachments, via the UCPH Job Portal (click the “APPLY NOW” link at the bottom of the job posting). 
Your application should include:

• Letter of application addressing the requirements (max. one page).
• Curriculum Vitae
• A certified/signed copy of certificate(s) of education

Application deadline is 22 October 2026.

Interviews will take place week 43-44.

The University of Copenhagen seeks to reflect society and encourages applications irrespective of personal background.

Further questions

Any questions about the position may be directed to Professor. Søren Johannes Sørensen, Se e-mailadresse på jobportal.ku.dk .   

The University of Copenhagen has established a new shared administrative structure, which is still being implemented. This entails ongoing changes and development of, among other things, work processes and areas of collaboration.