Experienced Postdoc in Cell-based Engineering of Extracellular Vesicles - DTU Bioengineering

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the research group ‘Biotherapeutic Glycoengineering and Immmunology’ headed by Professor Steffen Goletz, under the Villum Experiment project “Engineering an extracellular vesicles-based transfection method for challenging-to-transfect cells” led by Dr. Weihua Tian. This position offers an exciting opportunity to develop an innovative extracellular vesicles (EVs)-based DNA transfection platform that addresses a long-standing bottleneck in cell engineering—the efficient genetic modification of difficult-to-transfect cells. The project combines advanced cell engineering, EV biology, and molecular delivery strategies.

In our research group, we develop and apply advanced next-generation antibody, cellular, and molecular glycoengineering technologies to create innovative biotechnological platforms and production systems. Our research focuses on engineering EVs, mammalian cells, and multispecific antibodies to advance biomolecular delivery, gene transfer, and biomanufacturing. A key focus is the cell-based glycoengineering of EVs to enhance molecular delivery, including efficient cell transfection. The group also develops technologies in next-generation antibody engineering (bi-/multispecific and multimodal formats), phage display, gene-editing–based molecular and cellular glycoengineering, and optimized mammalian cell systems for high-yield production of complex biologics. We also have a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Our research group belongs to the Section of Medical Biotechnology at the Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine. The position will be available from 1st April or soon thereafter.

Responsibilities and qualifications
You as the postdoc will work within a team of Senior scientists, postdocs, PhD students and collaborators. Your project is headed by Dr. Weihua Tian and will focus on the generation and engineering of novel superior EV-based transfection and gene transfer technologies for difficult-to-transfect cells.

You will be responsible for engineering mammalian cells to modify surface glycans, optimize EVs production, and enhance DNA cargo loading and delivery. The work involves designing and performing targeted gene editing (knockout and knock-in) to improve EV functionality, developing strategies to enhance cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and nuclear targeting, and conducting transfection and gene editing assays in challenging cell types. You will characterize EVs using molecular, biochemical, and imaging approaches, collaborate closely with internal and external research partners, and contribute to technology development, data analysis, and dissemination. The position also includes participation in supervision of MSc or BSc students.

The successful candidate must hold a PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, cell biology, or a related life science discipline, with extensive experience in mammalian cell engineering and gene editing (CRISPR/Cas9, knock-in/knockout). Proven expertise in plasmid design, molecular cloning, and mammalian cell gene editing is required, while experience in EVs production, purification, and analysis will be considered an advantage. The ideal candidate is highly motivated, collaborative, and possesses excellent communication skills. Previous successful postdoctoral experience in a related research area is highly desirable.

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Dr. Weihua Tian and Prof. Steffen Goletz.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment of the full-time position is 22 months. Estimated start date 01.04.26.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Additional information may be obtained from Dr. Weihua Tian ([email protected]) or Prof. Steffen Goletz ([email protected])

You can read more about DTU Bioengineering at www.bioengineering.dtu.dk

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 31 January 2026 (23:59 Danish time).
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• PhD certificate, Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

Location
Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Apply Before
2026-01-31T22:59:00+00:00