Research-supporting academic employee in Drosophila metabolism and behavioral physiology at Department of Biology, Section for Cell and Neurobiology

Department of Biology at Science, University of Copenhagen is looking for a research-supporting academic employee in Drosophila metabolism and behavioural physiology with effect from 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter for a period of 3 years.

About us

The Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen conducts research and teaching across a broad range of biological disciplines, from molecular and cellular mechanisms to organismal physiology, evolution and ecology.

The position will be based in the Endocrinology and Metabolism research group in the Section for Cell and Neurobiology. The group studies how organs communicate to coordinate appetite, metabolism, growth, physiology and behavior, with a particular focus on hormonal and nutrient-regulated signaling in Drosophila . We combine genetics, molecular biology, imaging, behavioural assays and metabolic measurements to understand how signals from tissues such as muscle and adipose tissue regulate organismal physiology.

Tasks

The position is a time-limited research-supporting academic employee position linked to ongoing and newly expanded externally funded research activities on tissue-derived signals that regulate appetite and metabolism. The work will support experimental implementation, data generation, analysis, coordination and documentation in close collaboration with researchers, students and technical staff. The position is therefore intended for a person with strong practical, analytical and organisational skills who can contribute broadly to an active research environment.

Your tasks will include:

• Plan and perform experiments in Drosophila models investigating interorgan signaling, appetite regulation and metabolism.
• Maintain and generate fly stocks, set up genetic crosses and coordinate experimental timelines.
• Perform behavioral and metabolic assays, including feeding, appetite, nutrient preference and metabolic readouts such as glycogen, glucose and triglycerides.
• Use molecular and cell biological methods such as RNA extraction, qPCR, immunostaining, microscopy, dissections and sample preparation for biochemical or omics-related analyses.
• Contribute to quantitative data analysis, figure preparation, method documentation and preparation of manuscripts, reports and grant-related material.
• Coordinate daily research-supporting activities, support students and colleagues, and contribute to maintaining efficient laboratory workflows.

We expect

• A relevant academic degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology or a related field; a PhD or equivalent research experience will be considered an advantage.
• Experience with Drosophila genetics, physiology, metabolism, behavioral assays or related experimental model systems.
• Experience with molecular biology, imaging, quantitative data analysis and careful experimental documentation.
• Ability to work independently, organise complex experimental workflows and contribute constructively to collaborative projects.
• Strong interest in interorgan communication, appetite-regulatory signaling and metabolism.
• Good communication skills in English and an ability to work in an international research environment.

We offer :

We offer an international, collaborative and scientifically ambitious research environment focused on fundamental mechanisms that coordinate metabolism and behavior. The successful candidate will be part of an active group with strong expertise in Drosophila physiology, endocrine signaling, metabolism, genetics and imaging, and will work closely with researchers developing projects on tissue-derived signals that regulate appetite and metabolic homeostasis.

Terms of salary and employment

The position is a fixed-term position limited to a period of 3 years. The starting date is1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The employment and salary is made in accordance with the Circular on the Collective Agreement concerning academics in the state sector concluded between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations).

Employment will be as academic employee. The salary is based on seniority. Negotiation for salary supplement is possible. The working time are 37 hours per week on average. The working hours are flexible.

Your application

If you find the job interesting, please send an electronic application with attachment via Jobportalen (click on the link "Apply Now" at the bottom of the post) no later than 27 July 2026 at 23.59 CEST.

Interviews will take place in early to mid -August.

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 Kim Rewitz, phone Se telefonnummer på jobportal.ku.dk.