PhD Scholarship in Transgenerational Effects of PFAS on Blue Mussels – DTU Aqua

Job Description

Are you concerned about marine pollution and how it affects organisms? Then this PhD might be just for you. Chemical pollution is a major stressor to marine biota and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are of increasing concern due to their widespread and persistency. However, data on toxicity in marine systems is very scarce and there is a lack of knowledge on how PFAS affect the development and long-term survival of benthic invertebrates, such as mussels. The larvae of mussels are the most sensitive life stage and the bottleneck for population growth and survival. However, it is unknown how their sensitivity depends on a population’s pre-exposure and how PFAS effects translate from one generation to the next. The aim of this PhD is to investigate transgenerational effects of PFAS in blue mussels and analyze whether changing climate conditions modulate these effects.

Responsibilities and Qualifications

This PhD is based on experimental laboratory work, combining methods and approaches of ecotoxicology, physiology, and marine ecology. Most of the work will be done at DTU Aqua in Kgs. Lyngby, while some experiments will be conducted in Greenland and in Spain during prolonged research stays.

The primary tasks will be to:

• Determine the effects of individual and mixtures of different PFAS compounds on blue mussel larvae as a factor of adult pre-exposure using controlled laboratory experiments.
• Investigate whether transgenerational effects are compound-specific.
• Compare offspring sensitivity for mussels from differently polluted areas.
• Analyze how climate influences population susceptibility by replicating experiments in the Arctic and Mediterranean.

Candidates must have a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master’s degree within natural sciences (e.g., marine/aquatic biology, oceanography, ecotoxicology, environmental engineering). Some experience in field or laboratory work within (marine) biology (preferably with plankton or benthic invertebrates) is also expected. Modelling and/or technical skills are an advantage. In addition, candidates are expected to have:

• Interest in conducting longer research stays in Greenland and Spain to develop international collaboration.
• Good communication skills in English, both written and orally.
• Ability to conduct research independently and good problem-solving skills.
• Good collaborative skills and strong interest in participating and contributing to an inter-disciplinary and international research team.

Approval and Enrolment

The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU, in accordance with DTU’s rules for the PhD education.

We Offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice, offering a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment, striving 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, in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff.

The period of employment is 3 years. The expected starting date is 1 February 2027 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

Further Information

Further information may be obtained from Dr. Sinja Rist, DTU Aqua, Section of Ocean Science and Technology (siri@aqua.dtu.dk).

Candidates applying from abroad may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at “DTU – Moving to Denmark”. There is also the option of joining a monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup” Zoom seminar for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.

Application Procedure

The complete online application must be submitted no later than 30 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, applicants should open the “Apply now” link, fill out the online application form, and attach all materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter).
• Curriculum vitae.
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale.
• A tentative project description: 1-2 pages with a concise proposal on the research idea the applicant would like to explore, including relevance, motivation, the theoretical framework and preliminary suggestion of methodology.

Applicants may apply prior to obtaining their master’s degree but cannot begin before having received it. 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.

Section of Ocean Science and Technology

The Section for Ocean Science and Technology in DTU Aqua covers a wide research spectrum from oceanography, population ecology, observation technology and the Arctic. The research into oceanography integrates biological, physical and chemical parameters’ interactions in the ocean, ranging from individual plankton to regional seas, focusing on understanding the key processes that govern the structure and function of pelagic food webs, as well as climate and ecosystem interactions. The research in population ecology establishes how processes affecting individuals shape populations and ecosystems.

About DTU Aqua

DTU Aqua – National Institute of Aquatic Resources – works for well-functioning oceans, rivers, and lakes where biodiversity can thrive. Its research, advisory service, and education contribute to the development of a sustainable blue bioeconomy, robust aquatic ecosystems, and reduced effects of climate change. DTU Aqua has a large national and international network and cooperates with research partners, public authorities, industry, and NGOs, with state-of-the-art research facilities and Denmark’s only ocean- and arctic-going research vessel. The Institute has about 400 employees, one-half being scientific staff, including about 45 PhD students. About 40 nationalities are represented at the institute, and DTU Aqua supports an equal gender distribution. It is located in Lyngby, Hirtshals, Nykøbing Mors, and Silkeborg and has regular activities in Greenland.

About DTU

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829. DTU is one of Europe’s leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, DTU creates solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and helps secure Europe’s global leadership in sustainable technological development. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees, works in an international environment, and has an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.

How to Apply

More information and application: https://efzu.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_2001/job/7999/