
Research Assistant - Serum Research Initiative
Location: University of Copenhagen & Sera Scandia
Position Type: Full-time
About Us
The Serum Research Initiative (SRI) is a collaborative partnership between the University of Copenhagen and Sera Scandia/BioNordic Group, created to bridge basic research with commercial applications. Our mission is to understand how fetal bovine serum (FBS) and other sera influence cell culture at a biological level, to apply next-generation sequencing in identifying components that drive key cellular functions, and to translate these insights into novel products and methods that bring better standardization and predictability to the use of FBS and serum derivatives.
Job Description
We are seeking a talented and ambitious Research Assistant (with the possibility of developing into an Industrial PhD candidate) to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing projects combining experimental biology with advanced data-driven approaches, supporting our goal of translating scientific findings into commercially relevant outcomes.
You will work with mammalian cell systems, apply molecular biology techniques, and leverage bioinformatics to analyze transcriptomic datasets. This role requires strong technical skills, a collaborative spirit, and the ability to think critically about how research outputs can translate into innovation and market opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze large-scale transcriptomic datasets using bioinformatics and biostatistical methods.
- Develop and implement computational pipelines (R required; Python desirable).
- Maintain and optimize mammalian and primary cell cultures using aseptic techniques.
- Perform standard molecular biology experiments, including ELISA, Western blotting, qPCR, and DNA/RNA/protein extraction.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to align scientific progress with commercial objectives.
- Participate actively in project discussions, contributing ideas and challenging assumptions constructively.
- Prepare research reports, presentations, and documentation for both internal and external stakeholders.
Candidate Skills & Qualifications
Essential:
- Master’s degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or related field.
- Strong bioinformatics and biostatistics expertise with solid R programming skills.
- Hands-on experience with transcriptomic data analysis (e.g., RNA-seq, microarray).
- Proven experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique.
- Proficiency in molecular biology methods (ELISA, Western blotting, qPCR, nucleic acid/protein isolation).
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- Fluency in written and spoken English.
- Willingness to engage in critical scientific discussions.
- Commercial mindset with interest in translating research into applications.
Pluses:
- Experience in Python programming.
- Experience with sample preparation for proteomics and data analysis.
What We Offer
- An opportunity to work in an innovation-driven environment where science and industry meet.
- Professional development in both experimental and computational biology.
- Close collaboration with leaders and academic experts.
- Possibility of applying for an Industrial PhD position (if desired).
- Possibility of presenting scientific findings at international conferences and meetings.
- Scientific publications.
Place of employment
You will be stationed as a guest researcher at the August Krogh Building (AKB), Universitetsparken 13, 2100 Copenhagen Ø.
Terms of salary and employment
The employment is a full-time position. We expect the candidate to start 1st of November. Salary is decided based on qualifications.
Application
Your application must be send through the Jobindex portal and should include:
- Cover letter detailing your motivation and background for applying for the position
- CV
- Diploma
- Other information for consideration
Application deadline
8th of October 2025, selected candidates will be invited for interview in week 42 or 43.
Questions
For further information regarding the position or the company, please contact Lara Magni, e-mail: lara.magni@serascandia.com, or mobile +45 50 10 13 71.
Apply with QuickApply on Jobindex.