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University of Southern Denmark

Postdoc - Organic/Polymer/Supramolecular Chemistry

21h

University of Southern Denmark

Odense, DK · Full-time · DKK 400,000 – DKK 500,000

About this role

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the research group of Dr. Changzhu Wu. This exciting opportunity involves an interdisciplinary project at the interface of synthetic chemistry, polymer science, supramolecular design, and enzyme catalysis. It offers strong potential for fundamental discoveries and industrial relevance.

The position is part of the Carlsberg Foundation-funded SupraBAC project, aiming to develop supramolecular polymer coatings on E. coli cells to enhance whole-cell catalysis. The successful candidate will contribute through polymer synthesis, bacterial surface modification, and evaluation of catalytic performance. Daily tasks include designing functional polymers and advancing ATRP-based coating methods.

The Wu group specializes in polymer synthesis, bacterial coating, and biocatalysis, collaborating closely with national and international partners. It is embedded in SDU’s vibrant research environment with active interactions across interdisciplinary platforms. The team works on innovative, industrially relevant biocatalytic systems.

Join a dynamic group focused on supramolecular polymers for new catalysis possibilities. Contribute to project meetings, documentation, manuscripts, and reports. Gain exposure to cutting-edge biocatalytic transformations in a supportive academic setting.

Requirements

  • PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biocatalysis, or a closely related field
  • Strong hands-on experience in organic synthesis and/or polymer synthesis and design
  • Experience in biocatalysis, supramolecular systems, or chemical modification of bacterial/cell surface
  • Solid publication record appropriate to career stage
  • Good communication skills in English
  • Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary and international research environment

Responsibilities

  • Design and synthesis of functional and supramolecular polymers
  • Development of ATRP-based methods for coating E. coli
  • Construction and evaluation of coated bacterial systems for catalytic reactions
  • Polymer synthesis and molecular design
  • Organic molecular synthesis
  • Documentation of results and contribution to manuscripts, reports, and project meetings

Benefits

  • 18-month duration with possible extension subject to funding and mutual agreement
  • Starting date as soon as possible, latest 1 August or September 2026