Postdoc in Analytical Food Chemistry – Specializing in processing contaminants in foodstuffs - DTU Food

Job DescriptionDo you thrive in the lab and want to contribute to safer food in Europe? We are looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Postdoc to join the Research Group for Analytical Food Chemistry at the National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark (DTU). This is a full-time position within a dynamic and impactful environment where scientific excellence directly supports European food safety and public health. About UsOur group specializes in advanced analytical chemistry with a focus on mass spectrometry. We investigate the formation and occurrence of unwanted chemical contaminants in the food chain.

As part of our role as the EU Reference Laboratory for Processing Contaminants (EURL-PC), we contribute to shaping future food control systems by improving and harmonizing analytical methods across the EU. Responsibilities And QualificationsYou will be a central part of our laboratory operations, and your task will be focussed on supporting our EURL-PC responsibilities as well as contributing to other research and advisory activities in our research group.

You’ll work hands-on with high-end GC-MS instrumentation (and other analytical equipment) and collaborate closely with researchers and technicians to solve analytical challenges and develop, optimize, validate and apply analytical methods to evaluate food safety.

Key Responsibilities Perform trace-level analysis of organic processing contaminants in food, including 3-monochloropropanediol, and GE for glycidyl fatty acid esters Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced analytical instruments Plan and support laboratory and EURL activities Assist in method development and validation Contribute to technical reports, research projects, and scientific publications Liaise with network partners across Europe as part of the EURL Support scientific advice and quality assurance efforts Handle practical lab responsibilities in a collaborative settingWho We’re Looking ForWe’re seeking someone who’s organized, motivated, and passionate about laboratory science and analytical food chemistry.

The ideal candidate should be able to work independently, yet thrive in a team-oriented, multicultural environment. Essential Qualifications & Skills:

Academic background in analytical chemistry, chemistry, food chemistry, or chemical engineering Strong experience with GC-MS, preferably in food or biological sample analysis Familiarity with method development, data processing software, and QA systems Knowledge of ISO17025 accreditation processes Good English communication skills (written and verbal) Experience with sample handling, from collection to analysis Structured working style and the ability to multitask with attention to detail A positive mindset and willingness to take on both routine and complex tasksAs a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offerDTU 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.

This position offers A meaningful position contributing directly to food safety in Denmark and the EU A technically stimulating environment with the freedom to shape your daily work Collaboration with a dedicated, international team in a respected research institute Opportunities to contribute to scientific and policy impact at the European level A workplace that values knowledge sharing, collegiality, and scientific curiositySalary and terms of employment 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 is 2 years.

Preferred starting date is 1 October 2025 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position. You can read more about career paths at DTU here . Further information Further information may be obtained from Senior Advisor, Arvid Fromberg ( arfr@food. dtu. dk ) or Head of Research Group, Jens J. Sloth ( jjsl@food. dtu. dk ). You can read more about the DTU National Food Institute at DTU National Food Institute . If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark .

Application procedure Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 17 August 2025 (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: Application (cover letter)CVAcademic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)List of publications Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position. DTU National Food InstituteDTU National Food Institute conducts research into and disseminates - through advice, innovation and teaching - sustainable and value-creating solutions in the area of food and health for the benefit of society. The vision is to make a difference by generating future prosperity through research into food and health.

The institute works to prevent disease and promote health, develop new and better food products for a growing population and create sustainable technological solutions, including biosolutions. The institute’s tasks are carried out in interdisciplinary collaboration within e. g. nutrition, chemistry, toxicology, microbiology, epidemiology, modelling, and technology. This is achieved through a strong academic environment of international top class with correspondingly skilled researchers and employees. The Institute employs approximately 350 staff members. Technology for peopleDTU 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.