Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Developmental Epigenetics and Chromatin Regulation

32-Month Postdoctoral Position in Chromatin Biology and Epigenetic Gene Regulation

The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG), Aarhus University, seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our innovative research program. This 32-month position is part of the cutting-edge project "Functional screening to identify novel repressive chromatin factors," combining genome-wide reporter-based screening, FACS, and multi-omics/proteomics to discover previously unrecognized repressive chromatin mechanisms.

Position Details

Start date: May 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter

Duration: 32 months

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and develop functional screening pipelines to identify novel repressive chromatin factors using genome-wide integrated transcriptional reporters as quantitative readouts

• Work with mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and gastruloid differentiation models, combining reporter-based assays with controlled lineage induction

• Design and execute experiments involving PiggyBac-based reporter integration, FACS-based separation of active vs repressed reporter states, and chromatin locus enrichment (LacO/LacI capture)

• Identify proteins and histone modifications associated with repression through proteomics/mass spectrometry, followed by functional validation using CRISPR-based perturbations

• Integrate screening discoveries with single-cell multi-omics approaches to map candidate repressive mechanisms across cell types and developmental trajectories

• Collaborate closely with colleagues at MBG and within the broader RNA Biology and Innovation research environment

Required Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, epigenetics, developmental biology, or closely related field

• Experimental experience in one or more areas: chromatin/epigenetics (ChIP-seq, CUT&RUN/CUT&Tag, chromatin fractionation), stem cell culture and differentiation (preferably mouse ESCs), reporter-based assays, flow cytometry/FACS, and/or CRISPR-based perturbations

• Research output appropriate to career stage (publications, preprints, or equivalent contributions)

• Strong analytical thinking, attention to experimental quality, and proactive problem-solving skills

• Excellent organizational abilities and commitment to good laboratory practices

• Ability to work effectively in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with supervision (student co-supervision, lab training, journal clubs)

• Experience preparing manuscripts and presenting scientific results

• Demonstrated ability to drive independent research projects

• Experience coordinating complex workflows between wet lab, proteomics, and computational analyses

• Strong commitment to collegiality and constructive team culture

About Us

The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG) at Aarhus University provides a vibrant research and teaching environment spanning molecular biology from fundamental mechanisms to application-oriented research. The position will be hosted in the Developmental Multi-Omics Lab (Peter Zeller), which combines single-cell multi-omics technology development with perturbation experiments to understand cell type-specific epigenome emergence during mammalian development using gastruloids as in vitro differentiation models.

What We Offer

• State-of-the-art research infrastructure, modern laboratories, and access to shared core facilities supporting cell biology, genomics, and molecular biology workflows

• Scientifically ambitious environment with expertise in single-cell multi-omics and in vitro differentiation models

• Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities across experimental and computational life sciences

• Research culture emphasizing open discussion, regular feedback, and high experimental standards

• Collegial workplace with close daily interactions and networking opportunities

• Professional work environment characterized by equality and sustainable work-life balance

• Junior Researcher Development Programme for postdoctoral career development

• Comprehensive support services for international researchers and families

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted in English and include:

• Curriculum vitae

• Degree certificates

• Complete list of publications

• Statement of future research plans

• Information about research activities

• Teaching portfolio and verified teaching experience (if applicable)

Application Deadline: February 23, 2026

Applications must be submitted through Aarhus University's recruitment system. Shortlisting will be used, and all applicants will be notified of their application status. Letters of reference may be submitted by referees upon request.

Aarhus University is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where equality and diversity are valued.