Postdoctoral Research Associate - Archaea-Bacteria Interactions and Cooperation

**Postdoctoral Scientist - Archaea-Bacteria Partnerships in Low-Energy Anoxic Environments** We invite applications for a 33-month postdoctoral scientist position to work on the project "Teaming Up: Archaea-Bacteria partnerships to thrive in low-energy anoxic environments". The position will begin on April 1, 2026. **About the Research** Microbial life in anoxic environments relies on tight physical interactions that enable cells to function, conserve energy, communicate, and regulate cellular processes efficiently. This project aims to understand the formation and functioning of aggregate-forming Archaea-Bacteria partnerships. The research involves working with syntrophic deep-sea archaea-bacteria consortia using a wide array of imaging approaches including structural and chemical imaging. The postdoc will utilize the following methods: - Handling and experimenting with anaerobic syntrophic cultures - Stable isotope labelling coupled to nanoSIMS - Fluorescence microscopy & Expansion microscopy - Cryo-FIB in tandem with Cryo-EM This position is financed by the Independent Research Fund Denmark. The work will be carried out in the Archaea group, Section for Microbiology, Department of Biology with collaborations for Cryo-EM & correlative imaging (EMBION) at iNANO & the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, AU, and secondary ion mass spectrometry at the NanoSIMS lab, TU Munich, Germany. **Required Research Experience** We seek candidates with a background in microbiology, cell biology, microbial ecology, imaging of biological samples, or other related fields. Candidates should have experience with one or several of the following techniques: - Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH, CARD-FISH) - Expansion microscopy - Confocal laser scanning microscopy - Scanning or transmission electron microscopy - Cryo-electron tomography (cryoTEM) Candidates with prior imaging experience are particularly encouraged to apply. **Qualifications** - Relevant university education and PhD degree - Relevant background in microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, imaging, or related fields - Ability to work and collaborate in a group, develop new ideas, and communicate effectively in English **The Institution** The successful candidate will be employed by the Department of Biology at Aarhus University and work in the Section for Microbiology. The section employs 12 permanent scientific staff and ~20 PhD students and postdocs. Research covers microbial physiology, evolution, ecology, and biogeochemistry, integrating basic and applied research to address the role, ecophysiology, and evolution of microorganisms in natural, technical, and clinical systems. The section has well-developed shared laboratory facilities and permanent support staff of seven highly skilled laboratory technicians. From summer 2026, a new multimodal imaging facility – MicroCorr – dedicated to microbiological research will be available. The principal investigator for this project is Associate Professor Niculina Musat. **Location** Aarhus is Denmark's second-largest city with approximately 300,000 inhabitants. It offers a rich cultural scene and international community while maintaining a welcoming, safe environment. The workplace is the Department of Biology, Section for Microbiology, located at Ny Munkegade 116, 8000 Aarhus C. **Application Requirements** The application must be in English and include: - Curriculum vitae - Degree certificate - Complete list of publications - Statement of future research plans and information about research activities - Teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any) **Application Process** The application deadline is January 30, 2026. Shortlisting is used, meaning the head of department selects candidates for evaluation after the deadline. All applicants will be notified whether their applications proceed to expert assessment. Applications must be submitted via Aarhus University's recruitment system, accessible through the job advertisement on the university's website. **Additional Information** Appointment follows the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Salary depends on seniority as agreed between these organizations. Aarhus University is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes all applicants. The university offers comprehensive services for international researchers and families, including relocation services and career counsel