Study in Denmark | University of Copenhagen PhD Fellowship 2025
The Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen has announced an exciting opportunity for a fully funded PhD Fellowship in Microbiology. This fellowship is centered around a groundbreaking project that aims to investigate the molecular “arms race” between bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, and their bacterial hosts.
Supported by the Carlsberg Foundation in partnership with several other organizations, this fellowship offers an exceptional early-career scientist a unique chance to be part of a comprehensive and multidisciplinary initiative. The focus of the research is on exploring innovative strategies to combat antibiotic resistance, a significant and growing global health challenge.
The successful candidate will engage in advanced research that combines various scientific disciplines, allowing for a rich learning experience and the potential to contribute meaningfully to the field of microbiology and public health.
Reasons This Fellowship is Significant?
Successful fellows will be engaged full-time for a maximum of three years under Denmark’s national agreement for academics, earning a competitive salary along with comprehensive social benefits. In addition to the financial package, the award provides:
- Cutting-edge training in molecular biology, biochemistry, deep sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, genetics, and phage engineering.
- Utilization of top-tier facilities in the Faculty of SCIENCE, featuring state-of-the-art labs, bio-imaging rooms, and high-throughput systems.
- Global mobility, featuring optional research exchanges in China, Switzerland, or Germany based on project advancement.
- Intensive guidance from Principal Investigator Dr. Yong E. Zhang and an expanding team that currently consists of two PhD candidates and new post-doctoral researchers.
- Professional growth via coursework (≈30 ECTS), teaching roles, attending conferences, and publishing in prestigious journals.
Program Emphasis
The fellowship funds a PhD project named “Fundamental Study of Phage–Bacteria Interactions.” Employing Escherichia coli and its phages as a model, the study will analyze infection dynamics on molecular, physiological, and systems levels. The insights obtained are anticipated to apply to clinically significant pathogens and to guide new approaches against antibiotic-resistant “superbugs.”
Eligibility Requirement
Candidates should possess (or be nearing completion of) a Master’s degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a similar field, equivalent to 300 ECTS in the Danish educational framework. Key requirements consist of strong wet lab capabilities (cloning, microbial culture) and a proven understanding of molecular microbiology, bacterial stress responses, and phage biology.
Desired additional skills include experience with omics data analysis, proficiency in bioinformatics using R or Python, and proof of scientific writing (such as a thesis or published works). Proficiency in English along with robust analytical, organizational, and interpersonal abilities are also anticipated.
Duties & Training Obligations
The individual will develop and conduct autonomous experiments, fulfill required PhD coursework, assist in teaching, deliver progress updates, engage with an external institution, and submit a dissertation consisting of publishable research papers.
How to Apply
Submit all documents, including a cover letter (maximum 1 page), CV, degree certificates and transcripts, and any publications, in English via the University of Copenhagen’s online portal. You can find a brief application manual, assessments of credentials specific to countries, and additional information on the university’s website.
Application Deadline: 31 August 2025.
RECOMMENDED
- Firstly, Scholarships in German Universities Without IELTS (Fully Funded)
- Secondly, Call For Applications: Fully Funded Scholarships in USA 2022
- Thirdly, 2022 AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FREE ONLINE COURSES
- Then, Opportunity to Study in USA | USA University Scholarships
- Also, National Scholarship Program in Slovakia
- Moreover, Scholarship Opportunity in Europe
- Additionally, Call For Applications: Fully Funded Scholarships in USA 2022
- Furthermore, 2022 AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT FREE ONLINE COURSES
- Afterwards, Opportunity to Study in USA | USA University Scholarships
- Finally, Internships in Japan: UNICEF Paid Internship 2025