Postdoctoral position in RNA evolution and nanotechnology

Postdoctoral Position in RNA Evolution and Nanotechnology

The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Aarhus University invites applications for a 1-year and a half postdoc position. This position offers an exciting opportunity to join a research project focused on developing nucleic acid-based artificial systems for precise biomolecular targeting.

The position is available from 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible hereafter.

Job Description

Our group, the Valero Lab, is passionate about nucleic acids (DNA, RNA and XNA). We focus on a unique angle that combines cutting edge nanotechnology tools, nucleic acid chemistry and in vitro evolution techniques to develop novel nucleic acid systems that display a wide variety of functionalities.

The focus of this postdoc position is to develop novel methods for the in vitro selection of chemically modified RNAs and to design interlocked nucleic acid nanostructures for biomolecular targeting.

The successful candidate will primarily work on:

• Chemical modification of RNA (Bioconjugation, HPLC purification, RNA incorporation validation)
• Selection and characterization of RNA aptamers
• Design and synthesis of interlocked nucleic acid nanostructures.
• Functional validation of selected RNA molecules and application in biophysical, microscopy and cellular assays
• Preparation of manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals

  The candidate is expected to work close with research group members as well as with national and international collaborators

  Qualifications

  Applicants must hold a PhD degree in nanoscience/molecular biology/biochemistry/bioengineering or a related field.

  Essential qualifications:

  • Documented experience with in vitro selection techniques
  • Experience with nucleic acid synthesis
  • Experience with synthetic RNA modifications
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, as well as great science communication skills
  • Experience in supervising students

    Desirable qualifications:

    • Experience with next generation sequencing and data analysis
    • Experience with aptamers and assay development
    • Curiosity-driven interest in RNA nanotechnology and design of nucleic acid nanostructures

      Applicants should be highly motivated, scientifically ambitious, and able to take initiative and responsibility within the research environment.

      What We Offer

      The successful applicant is offered:

      • Access to a well-equipped research infrastructure and collaborative access to state-of-the-art core facilities.
      • A scientific environment inviting open and critical thinking within and across interdisciplinary research fields, also fostering collaboration with academia and industrial partners.
      • A working environment with teamwork, network activities among young scientists across different faculties at Aarhus University and social activities.
      • A workplace characterised by professionalism, equality and a healthy work-life balance.

        Place of Work and Area of Employment

        The place of work is the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C.

        Contact Information

        Further information about the position may be obtained from Assistant Prof. Julián Valero jvalero@inano.au.dk. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact for further details about the position.

        Deadline

        Applications must be received no later than 31 July 2026.

        Application Procedure

        Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self.