Declaration of interest regarding PhD project:

Department of Molecular Medicine at SDU is looking for applicants for a PhD scholarship within the field of biomarker and therapeutic target investigations in biliary atresia. We are looking for a person with a relevant degree (MD, MSc. etc.)

Research environment

The PhD project will be based at the Department of Inflammation, Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), University of Southern Denmark. The department constitutes an international and interdisciplinary research environment with strong expertise in immunology and inflammation, including the mechanisms underlying inflammatory diseases and their role in tissue damage and disease development. The research is characterized by close integration of basic and translational approaches, as well as well-established collaboration with clinical environments. The department offers modern laboratory facilities, employs advanced molecular and cellular methods, and provides a stimulating, inclusive, and ambitious research environment with excellent opportunities for academic mentoring, international collaboration, and researcher training.

Project description

Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare and severe cholestatic liver disease of infancy and the leading cause of pediatric liver transplantation. The disease is characterized by progressive inflammation and liver fibrosis, yet the mechanisms driving fibrogenesis remain incompletely understood and reliable prognostic biomarkers are lacking. Improved risk stratification and a deeper mechanistic understanding of fibrosis development are essential to improve outcomes following Kasai portoenterostomy and to guide future therapeutic strategies.

This PhD project investigates extracellular matrix-related mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis in BA through a combination of clinical, translational, and experimental approaches. The PhD student will work with patient cohort to perform biomarker analyses and statistical modeling of clinical outcomes. In parallel, the student will contribute to the development and validation of novel blood-based biomarker assay. Mechanistic studies will be conducted in a neonatal large-animal model of cholestatic liver injury, where the student will participate in in vivo interventions, longitudinal sample collection, and downstream analyses of liver fibrosis, immune responses, and tissue remodeling using histological, biochemical, and molecular techniques. The study is performed in collaboration between University of Southern Denmark in Odense and Copenhagen University Hospital/University in Copenhagen and the student will have tasks at both locations. The project offers comprehensive training in translational liver research, including data analysis, experimental design, and scientific dissemination. 

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate with a strong interest in translational biomedical research and liver disease. The ideal candidate has:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in medicine, biomedical sciences, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, veterinary science, or a related field

• Documented experience or strong interest in experimental laboratory work

• Basic knowledge of cell and molecular biology, immunology, or pathology

• Interest in liver biology, fibrosis, or pediatric diseases (prior experience is an advantage but not required)

• Experience with or willingness to learn biomarker analyses (e.g. ELISA), histological techniques, and molecular assays

• Interest in animal models and in vivo experimentation; prior experience is an advantage

• Basic skills in data analysis and statistics, or willingness to acquire these skills

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex experimental workflows

• Good written and spoken English skills

For further information about the position please contact; glsorensen@health.sdu.dk). 

For further information about the project, please contact:
Professor Grith L Sørensen 

Department of Molecular Medicine

University of Southern Denmark (SDU)

Tlf. +4521356098.   E-mail: glsorensen@health.sdu.dk

Applications must include:

• At letter stating the interest, motivation and qualifications for the project (max. 2 pages) - upload under “Application form”.
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information
• Certified copy of diploma (Master’s degree in a relevant field)

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Further information about the PhD-study can be found at the homepage of the University.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply now". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Closing date Feburary 28th 2026

Successful candidates will be asked to send an application to the PhD Secretariat, Faculty of Health Sciences, to be enrolled as PhD students.

 

The PhD programme will be carried out in accordance with Faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order)

Salary and Working Conditions at SDU

PhD students employed at SDU are employed as PhD fellows according to the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations in public employment (AC) agreement.

Salary and any salary supplement are paid according to your seniority level and as negotiated with your union representative. The base salary (excluding 18.07% pension contribution) is DKK 374,912.98.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.