PhD Position in Neurodevelopment and Developmental Disruption

Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital – Rigshospitalet, Denmark

The Department of Growth and Reproduction invites applications for a 3-year PhD position focusing on neurodevelopment and how environmental and pharmaceutical exposures during early life may disrupt brain development. The position will start as soon as possible.

The successful applicant will join a research project investigating how xenobiotic exposures during fetal life influence neurodevelopment and may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD. The project combines experimental approaches in cellular and animal models to identify molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying disrupted brain development. The project is conducted in collaboration with partners at the University of Copenhagen, Roskilde University, and Harvard University (Boston, USA).

The position is primarily experimental but may also include contributions to the group’s work on human studies.

The research group studies how developmental exposure to pharmaceuticals and environmental chemicals affects brain and reproductive development. The group applies a broad range of experimental approaches with a central focus on molecular and cellular biology. The successful candidate will be expected to integrate into the research team and participate in both animal and cell-based experimental work. Laboratory work will constitute a substantial part of the project and may include mechanistic studies using human induced pluripotent stem cells, primary cells, and rodent models.

The position requires a candidate who can work independently while also contributing actively to a collaborative research environment.

Responsibilities and tasks

Conduct experimental laboratory research, including work with cell lines, primary cells, human induced pluripotent stem cells, molecular imaging, and general molecular biology techniques.

Participate in animal experiments incl. behavioral testing and MR analyses investigating mechanisms underlying disrupted neurodevelopment.

Independently plan and carry out defined research projects.

Communicate research findings through presentations at group meetings and national and international conferences, and through preparation of scientific manuscripts.

Collaborate closely with technical staff and students.

Contribute to the overall activities of the research group, including scientific discussions and project development.

Experience with animal behavioural testing and behavioural analysis software will be considered an advantage.

Qualifications

A Master’s degree in life sciences (e.g. Neuroscience, Biology, Molecular Biomedicine, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, or Medicine).

Experience with in vitro laboratory work.

Interest in neurodevelopment and developmental toxicology.

A FELASA Function A/B/D certificate (formerly FELASA Category C), or eligibility to obtain this certification.

Good English communication skills, both oral and written.

Experience conducting independent research projects.

We offer

The Department of Growth and Reproduction is an international centre for research on developmental disruption caused by xenobiotics. The Department functions as a global hub for research and training on how genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures affect sex development, brain development, and puberty.

The Department has a strong translational research profile and includes clinical and basic scientists, epidemiologists, clinicians, and public health researchers, providing an interdisciplinary research environment.

Further information

Further information about the position may be obtained from Professor David Møbjerg Kristensen, [email protected].

Application procedure

Please submit your online application no later than December 1, 2026.

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be considered. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Diploma (MSc)
• List of publications (if applicable)
• Names and contact information of 2–3 referees who may be contacted during the interview process

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.