The University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026 in Denmark offers a fully funded 3-year position to investigate neuronal circuits of movement arrest in the Kiehn Laboratory. This PhD project focuses on understanding how supraspinal circuits control movement arrest using advanced in vivo techniques like mouse genetics, optogenetics, and viral tracing. The position is scheduled to commence on 1 August 2026.
The University of Copenhagen is among Europe’s top-ranking universities and a member of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU). The Department of Neuroscience hosts over 25 research groups working in diverse areas of neuroscience, providing a creative and international environment for PhD students. The Kiehn Laboratory specializes in functional operation of neuronal networks controlling movements and pathophysiological aspects of motor control.
Benefits of University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026
- Salary and pension in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State
- Reduced tax payment under the Special Tax Scheme for Researchers for candidates from abroad
- Full-time employment with average weekly working hours of 37 hours per week
- Fixed-term position limited to 3 years
- Opportunity to work in a creative and international environment at a top-ranking university
Eligibility Criteria for the University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026
- Master’s degree in neuroscience (equivalent to 180 ECTS BSc + 120 ECTS MSc)
- Prior research experience (e.g. research assistant position) in the field of motor neuroscience
- Fluency in written and spoken English
- Prior experience from in vivo rodent research, especially with transgenic mouse lines and colony management, and stereotaxic surgeries
- Approved FELESA course
- Documented survival surgery skills for rodent
- Prior experience in designing and performing optogenetic and chemogenetic experiments including behavioural assays and analysis
How to Apply for the University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026
- Submit your application electronically by clicking ‘Apply now’ on the official site
- Include a motivated letter of application (max. one page) in PDF format
- Include a CV with education, experience, technical skills, language skills, and contact information of two references
- Include a certified copy of original Master of Science diploma and transcript of records (with authorized English translation if needed)
- Include a publication list
- Optional: include reference letters
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026?
University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded 3-year PhD position in the Kiehn Laboratory at the Department of Neuroscience, focusing on neuronal circuits of movement arrest. The position starts on 1 August 2026 and includes salary, pension, and potential tax benefits for international candidates.
What are the eligibility criteria for University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026?
University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026 must hold a Master’s degree in neuroscience, have prior research experience in motor neuroscience, fluency in English, and experience with in vivo rodent research including transgenic mouse lines, stereotaxic surgeries, and optogenetic/chemogenetic experiments. Approved FELESA course and survival surgery skills are mandatory.
What is the application deadline?
University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship 2026 application deadline is 7 May 2026 at 23.59pm CET. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Ensure all required documents in PDF format are submitted electronically via the ‘Apply now’ button.
What documents are required for the application?
You need a motivated letter of application (max one page), a CV with two references, a certified copy of your Master’s diploma and transcript (with authorized English translation if needed), and a publication list. Reference letters are optional.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Yes, the position is fully funded. Salary and pension are in accordance with the Danish state agreement. International candidates may also benefit from reduced tax under the Special Tax Scheme for Researchers.
What research techniques will I use?
You will use transgenic mouse lines, stereotaxic surgeries, viral approaches (AAV, rabies virus), optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulations, behavioural assessment of locomotion, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridisation, and advanced microscopy including confocal and light-sheet microscopy.
Who is the principal supervisor?
The principal supervisor is Professor Ole Kiehn at the Department of Neuroscience. You can contact him at [email protected] for questions about the project.
What is the duration of the PhD position?
The position is a fixed-term employment limited to 3 years. The PhD programme is a three-year full-time research education within the 5+3 scheme.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes, international candidates are welcome. The working language is English, and the university offers a creative international environment. Candidates from abroad may be eligible for reduced tax under the Special Tax Scheme for Researchers.
How are applications assessed?
After the deadline, the recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment by an unbiased assessor. The assessor evaluates academic qualifications and experience against the listed requirements. All applicants are notified whether their application has been passed for assessment.
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