Phd Student - Biophysical Characterization

Are you passionate about biopharmaceutical research? Do you want to work at the forefront of science, investigating proteinaceous particle formation in monoclonal antibody products? Join us in an exciting collaboration between Novo Nordisk, the University of Copenhagen, and the Technical University of Denmark. If you’re ready to make a difference in the development of life-changing treatments, read on and apply today!

The position

As a PhD student in Biophysical Characterization, you will:

• Plan and efficiently perform systematic studies in the laboratory
• Analyse and visualise complex data sets to uncover meaningful insights
• Establish a methodological platform for predicting proteinaceous particle formation
• Collaborate with a diverse group of industrial and academic supervisors from Novo Nordisk, the University of Copenhagen (FARMA, KU), and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
• Disseminate your findings within the biopharmaceutical field through scientific publications and presentations

Your work will focus on evaluating the impact of formulation and process-related parameters on particle formation in monoclonal antibody (mAb) products. You will apply advanced biophysical techniques such as Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS), light scattering, microscopy, flow imaging, and rheology to characterise protein behaviour. The goal is to elucidate the mechanisms behind proteinaceous particle formation and develop predictive methods for large-scale production.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of biopharmaceutical research in a collaborative and supportive environment. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment at both the University of Copenhagen and Novo Nordisk, receive training in advances characterization techniques, and gain exposure to industrial applications. The project aims to develop innovative tools that can help accelerate the delivery of new therapies to patients.

Qualifications

To succeed in this role, you have:

• A master's degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biophysics or related areas
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Fluent in English, excellent communication skills and teamwork abilities
• Interest and passion in working on cross-disciplinary science in pharmaceutical area

Experience with one or more of the subjects below will be considered a plus:

• Good wet lab skills in relation to protein sample preparation
• Laboratory experience using various biophysical techniques. These may include SAXS, DLS, microscopy, MFI, FlowCam, rheology, FTIR, CG-MALS, fluorescence plate readers or any combination thereof.
• Coding skills (e.g., Python)
• Experience with or knowledge of predictive modelling
• Knowledge of physical stability in relation to mAb, VHH or minibinders

About the department

As part of Novo Nordisk’s CMC & Product Supply (CMC&PS) organisation, the CMC Product & Process Development (CMC) area transforms drug candidates into life-changing treatments. From research to market, we develop commercial manufacturing processes, produce high-quality products for clinical trials, and compile essential scientific documentation for regulatory submissions. Based in a collaborative and innovative environment, we drive advancements that positively impact the lives of millions of patients worldwide.

Working at Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company with a 100-year legacy of driving change to defeat serious chronic diseases. Building on our strong legacy within diabetes, we are growing massively and expanding our commitment, reaching millions around the world and impacting more than 40 million patient lives daily. All of this has made us one of the 20 most valuable companies in the world by market cap. Our success relies on the joint potential and collaboration of our more than 72,000 employees around the world. We recognise the importance of the unique skills and perspectives our people bring to the table, and we work continuously to bring out the best in them. Working at Novo Nordisk, we’re working toward something bigger than ourselves, and it’s a collective effort. Join us! Together, we go further. Together, we’re life changing.

Contact

For further information, please contact Biophysical Analysis Specialist Minna Grønning Jensen at MGQJ@novonordisk.com.

Deadline

1 August 2025.

Please note that only online applications will be accepted. Your application must include a cover letter (max. one page) outlining your motivation and qualifications for the project, a full CV, and your Master's degree diploma with transcripts. If your degree is from outside Denmark, please include a brief explanation of the grading scale used. To strengthen your application, you may also include a list of publications and a recommendation letter.

Selected candidates will be invited to an interview at the University of Copenhagen (FARMA, KU), where they will present based on a small assignment provided beforehand. Get to know us better by visiting www.novonordisk.com/careers.

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. 

At Novo Nordisk we recognize that it is no longer good enough to aspire to be the best company in the world. We need to aspire to be the best company for the world and we know that this is only possible with talented employees with diverse perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. We are therefore committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates the diversity of our employees, the patients we serve and communities we operate in. Together, we’re life changing.