PhD Position on PET Radiotracer Development and Validation, Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rigshospitalet

A fully funded 3-year PhD position is available for the development and preclinical evaluation of a new insulin PET radiotracer as part of the large research project “Disentangling the Effect of Brain Insulin Resistance on Brain Health: The BIR-BrainHealth Project.” The project aims to investigate why individuals with diabetes mellitus develop cognitive difficulties and have an increased risk of dementia.

This multicenter study involves the Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rigshospitalet, the Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, the University of Copenhagen, and the University of Ulm, Germany.

This PhD position will focus on developing and validating new insulin PET radiotracers. The primary objective is to radiolabel and validate the tracer, initially in animal models, with the goal of eventual human application.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate should hold a degree in either radiochemistry, biochemistry, human biology, pharmacy, biotechnology, or a related field. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team is essential. Prior hands-on experience in PET radiotracer development is essential. Experience in performing animal models is also considered an advantage. A strong interest in neuroimaging is also highly valued.

What We Offer

We provide an opportunity to be part of a large and ambitious research project that examines brain health using new and innovative approaches. The research environment is multidisciplinary, equipped with top-class facilities, and fosters a collaborative and friendly atmosphere. The project also provides access to a strong national and international research network, facilitating collaborations with leading research groups.

The BIR-BrainHealth Project is led by Professor Henrik B.W. Larsson at the Functional Imaging Unit, Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rigshospitalet Glostrup. The primary workplace for this position will be the Cyclotron and Radiochemistry Unit at the Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rigshospitalet, led by Chief Radiochemist Jacob Madsen, and at the Cluster for Molecular Imaging at the University of Copenhagen, led by Professor Andreas Kjær.

Other key collaborators include the Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen and the University of Ulm, Section of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutritional Sciences.

Application Process

The application deadline is the 17.th of September 2025, and applications should be submitted online via the job advert link. Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV and a motivated application, detailing relevant coursework, previous research experience, education and practical skills.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or ethnicity.

Terms of Employment

The position is full-time for a period of three years and is available from July, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter. Employment will be in accordance with the collective agreement within the Capital Region of Denmark.

For further inquiries, please contact Henrik BW Larsson (Henrik.bo.wiberg.larsson@regionh.dk) or Jacob Madsen (Jacob.madsen@regionh.dk).

About Diagnostic center Rigshospitalet

The Centre of Diagnostic Investigation comprises a collection of highly specialized departments: Diagnostic radiology, clinical biochemistry, pathology, clinical immunology, clinical physiology/nuclearmedicine and PET, clinical microbiology, clinical genetics & center of genomic medicine.  

The center has a staff of app. 1.550 and an annual turnover of 1.2 billion kroner. The center produces annually 10 mill. laboratory analyses and performs 650.000 image diagnostics based on 1 mill. contacts with patients and donors.

The core task is high-level research, strong educational environments, customized diagnostics and patient treatment. 36 professors and other researchers provides annually more than 700 scientific articles in international reputable journals.

• Fakta

• Arbejdssted
  Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej
• Kontaktperson
  Jane Andersen
  jane.andersen.03@regionh.dk
• Adresse
  Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 København Ø
• Stillingstype
  Biokemiker
• Ansættelsesform
  Fast ansættelse
• Ugentlig arbejdstid
  Fuld tid
• Ansættelsens start
  Snarest muligt
• Regionens jobnr.
  264094
• Quick-nr.
  480822
• Indrykningsdato
  03-09-2025
• Ansøgningsfrist
  17-09-2025