Senior Researcher in Organoid and Stem Cell–Based Translational Research at Department of Molecular Medicine (MOMA), Aarhus University Hospital

The Department of Molecular Medicine (MOMA) at Aarhus University Hospital invites applications for a Senior Researcher position to be filled from 1 February 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The appointment is for a fixed term of three years, with the possibility of extension.

With growing activities in precision and regenerative medicine, we seek to strengthen our research environment with a senior scientist who can drive and expand advanced human stem cell and organoid models, particularly iPSC-based systems, toward clinically relevant and translational applications.

The successful candidate will take a leading scientific role in developing and applying iPSC and organoid models, including genetic engineering approaches that enable precise control of lineage commitment and differentiation, and in using these models to address clinically meaningful questions.

About Us

MOMA is a highly interdisciplinary department and one of the leading Nordic centers in molecular diagnostics and clinically applied precision medicine. We perform clinical diagnostics using DNA- and RNA-sequencing and maintain extensive research activity across cancer, medical diseases, molecular biology, and advanced omics. Our environment spans molecular biologists, bioanalysts, clinicians, engineers, mathematicians, and researchers, and we collaborate widely within Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus University, and with national and international partners.

In close collaboration with the neighboring Research unit for molecular medicine (MMF), the Senior Researcher will be embedded in the translational ecosystem at Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University and will have access to strong core facilities and collaborative networks supporting advanced cellular modeling and imaging, as well as state-of-the-art omics-based readouts.

Key Responsibilities

Depending on the candidate’s strengths, responsibilities will include several of the following:

• Develop, optimize, and apply advanced human iPSC/stem-cell systems, including 2D/3D cultures and organoids, aimed at modeling human development and disease. 
• Implement genetic engineering / gene-editing strategies to achieve robust and reproducible differentiation and functional maturation in organoid models. 
• Lead translational research projects connecting stem-cell/organoid biology with patient- or clinically derived hypotheses 
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and technical staff and contribute to a strong training and learning environment. 
• Attract external funding and publish in leading journals, sustaining a high-impact scientific profile within organoid and stem cell research. 
• Collaborate with clinical and basic research partners to ensure that developed models and results have clear translational potential.

We offer

• An exciting senior research position with substantial scientific independence and opportunities for continued professional development. 
• A highly interdisciplinary and ambitious environment with committed colleagues and strong scientific expertise. 
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and core infrastructures supporting stem-cell and organoid research.
• A dynamic department with extensive national and international collaboration, focused on making a real difference for patients.

Qualifications

We seek a candidate with a strong international profile in stem cell- and organoid-based research. The ideal candidate will have:

• PhD in a relevant biomedical/life-science field 
• Extensive hands-on and conceptual experience with human pluripotent stem cells and differentiation into specialized cell types. 
• Strong expertise in 2D/3D cellular models and organoids, including assay development and rigorous experimental design. 
• Proven track record of high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals. 
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and supervise researchers/staff, appropriate to senior level. 
• Documented success in obtaining competitive external research funding.

Terms of employment

Salary and employment conditions are in accordance with the relevant collective agreement. Appointment is conditional on a satisfactory child-protection certificate.

The position is full-time, with Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 21A, Aarhus as the primary workplace.

Further Information

For further information about the position, please contact:

• Head Professor Lars Dyrskjøt Andersen – lars@clin.au.dk, phone +45 7845 5320

• Chief physician, Ole Halfdan Larsen – ollars@rm.dk, phone +45 7845 5300

Application

The application deadline is 7 December 2025, and interviews are expected to take place in week 50.

Stillingen er som udgangspunkt en fuldtidsstilling.

Da Region Midtjylland løbende gennemfører besparelser og omorganiseringer, vil medarbejdere i omplacering, der søger stillingen, have fortrinsret.