PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics…

Project Overview

About the Position

Aarhus University invites applications for a PhD position on tracking microbes across borders using genomics to uncover biomass-to-biogas transmission pathways. The project applies genomic and bioinformatic methods to understand how microbial communities move through biomass supply chains and biogas plants, connecting findings to process performance in the bioenergy sector. The position is embedded in the university's research on green transition technologies and circular bioeconomy systems.

The successful candidate will combine field sampling, sequencing data generation and computational analysis to trace microbial populations across national borders and industrial sites. The work connects molecular microbiology with engineering practice, and findings will feed into improved inoculation, monitoring and risk-management strategies for biogas production. The PhD is a salaried three-year position under the Danish collective agreement, based at the Aarhus campus with project-related travel.

Project Approach

The project builds on genome-resolved metagenomics and comparative genomics to identify microbial strains, follow their transmission routes and relate them to biogas process outcomes. The candidate will develop analysis pipelines, work with industrial and research partners, and publish findings in international journals. Applicants should hold a master's degree in microbiology, bioinformatics, environmental engineering or a related discipline, and demonstrate skills in genomics data analysis; experience with anaerobic digestion or bioprocess engineering is an advantage.

Highlights

Genome-resolved metagenomics of microbial communities
Transmission pathway analysis across borders and sites
Biomass-to-biogas process microbiology
Bioinformatics pipeline development
Collaboration with bioenergy industry partners
Salaried three-year PhD under the Danish collective agreement

Funding and Duration

Component	Details
Award or position	PhD fellowship / salaried position
Stipend / salary	Salaried three-year PhD position (Danish collective agreement)
Duration	Three years

Eligibility and Requirements

Component	Details
Applicant eligibility	Worldwide
Academic preparation	Master's degree in microbiology, bioinformatics, environmental engineering or a related field
Language	English proficiency required

Application dates

Component	Details
Recruitment status	Open
Deadline	1 November 2026, 23:59 CET
Location	Aarhus, Denmark

About Aarhus University

Aarhus University is a leading Danish research university with strengths in engineering, physics, artificial intelligence, and quantum materials.

Official details: Read the programme or project information

Application route: Follow the official application instructions

Contact

Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.

Important Notes

Application deadline: 1 November 2026, 23:59 CET - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.

How to Apply

Submit your application through the official page before the deadline: 1 November 2026, 23:59 CET. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents - early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.

Open the official application page ↗

Application guides

Official Link

https://phd.tech.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/saeropslag/tracking-microbes-across-borders-using-genomics-to-uncover-biomass-to-biogas-transmission-pathways

Verified against the official sourceReport an issue with this listing

Frequently asked questions

Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.

What is the deadline for PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark?

The application deadline is 2 November 2026 (1 November 2026, 23:59 CET). Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/Copenhagen time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/Copenhagen but gives no clock time.

Is PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark fully funded?

This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. Approx. DKK 30,000–36,000/month + pension (Danish collective agreement).

Who is eligible to apply for PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark?

This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Denmark. Applications are assessed by Aarhus University.

How do I apply for PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark?

Applications for PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark are submitted directly to Aarhus University through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.

Is an English proficiency test required for PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark?

Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for Denmark are published by the provider.

What study level does PhD: Tracking Microbes Across Borders using Genomics (Biomass-to-Biogas) - Aarhus University, Denmark offer?

This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.

Hosted by

Aarhus University