Position as postdoc in Biochemical and functional characterization of milk-derived extracellular vesicles

Postdoc Position in Biochemical and Functional Characterization of Milk-Derived Extracellular Vesicles

We are seeking applicants for a postdoc position in “Biochemical and functional characterization of milk-derived extracellular vesicles” to join us at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics in the research team of Jan Trige Rasmussen.

The position is available from 1 December 2026 or as soon as possible hereafter. Duration of employment is two years.

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the interdisciplinary NNF-synergy project MEVIN (Milk Extracellular Vesicles for Preterm Infants). You will contribute to the biochemical and functional characterization of milk-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a novel supplement for preterm infant nutrition. More specifically you will be involved in identification and validation the most promising milk EV fractions for intestinal protection and immune regulation. We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join the interdisciplinary MEVIN project. You will contribute to the isolation, characterization, and functional analysis of milk EVs, especially from bovine sources, and investigate their RNA cargo, cellular uptake, and intracellular trafficking in recipient cells. The work spans biochemical and molecular characterisation using single-vesicle tracking, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), NanoFlow cytometry, and advanced imaging techniques, as well as bioinformatic analysis of small RNAs and transcriptomic data. You will collaborate closely with partners working on animal models (preterm pigs) and clinical studies, contributing to the translation of milk EV biology into nutritional interventions for preterm infants, as well as preparation of data for high-quality publications and project reports.

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a strong publication record and the following qualifications:

• PhD degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, nanoscience, biotechnology, immunology, or a closely related field.
• Documented hands-on experience with isolation and characterization of extracellular vesicles (e.g., size-exclusion chromatography, density-gradient centrifugation, NTA, immunoblotting, or nanoflow cytometry).
• Practical expertise in advanced imaging or single-particle analysis (e.g., cryo-EM/TEM, TIRF microscopy, single-vesicle tracking, confocal microscopy, or high-sensitivity flow cytometry).
• Solid skills in molecular biology and biochemistry and quantitative biomolecular analysis.
• Experience or knowledge related to RNA biology, EV surface engineering (e.g., fusion proteins or ligand display), affinity-based targeting, or cell-uptake assays will be an advantage.
• Excellent English communication skills, ability to work independently and responsibly, and a collaborative mindset in an international research environment.
• Self-driven and capable of independent research planning, while thriving in an international, collaborative, and interdisciplinary team environment.

  Applications must be received no later than 25 September 2026.

  The application must be submitted via Aarhus University's recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.