Applications are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Natural Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Molecular Biology and Genetics programme. The position is available from August 2026 or later.
 

Title:
Designing Programmable RNA Circuits for Cellular Control

Research area and project description:
In the Andersen lab for Biomolecular Design (andersen-lab.dk) we are experts in designing DNA, RNA and proteins to create nanoscale devices for applications in biotechnology and medicine. The lab invented the RNA origami method that allows rational design of RNA scaffolds and devices for expression in cells [1] and have recently developed RNA origami robots that can sense, compute and actuate [2], which opens new possibilities for controlling cellular function.

In the recently funded RIBOTICS project, the lab aims to develop RNA origami robots for cell factories (yeast production strains) for improved synthesis of valuable proteins and biochemicals. This PhD project aims to develop RNA circuit systems that control the behaviour of RNA nanorobots inside cells using programmable strand displacement reactions. The PhD candidate will:

• Develop RNA circuits using loop-mediated strand displacement (LSD) - a mechanism where RNA strands exchange partners to transmit signals.
• Use the capture-SELEX method to discover RNA motifs that can act as receptors for specific molecular inputs.
• Engineer RNA devices that combine these inputs into simple logic functions (such as AND or OR) to create decision-making circuits.
• Assemble multi-step RNA circuits that control how RNA robots activate, change shape, or interact in response to cellular cues.
• Transfer these RNA circuits into living cells to regulate metabolic processes.
• Explore ways to link RNA circuits with natural cellular signalling pathways to give cells new programmable capabilities.

The RIBOTICS project involves a team of 3 postdocs and 3 PhD students, who will work on design, characterization, and experimental verification of several RNA systems that can regulate gene expression, control enzyme proximity, sense product yields, and do molecular computations for feedback control. The PhD student will work in close collaboration with the RIBOTICS team, will receive day-to-day scientific guidance from a Postdoctoral mentor, and will be part of a vibrant research environment at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center.

References:

[1] A single-stranded architecture for cotranscriptional folding of RNA nanostructures. Science (2014). https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1253920

[2] An RNA origami robot that traps and releases a fluorescent aptamer. Science Advances (2024). https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adk1250

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Qualifications and specific competences:
Required qualifications:

• Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or have completed at least one year of a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Nanoscience, Biophysics or Bioengineering.
• Applicants should have a strong interest in RNA structural biology and a motivation to acquire expertise in relevant biophysical characterization methods.
• Applicants must have good communications skills and ability to work both collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team and independently.
• Applicants must have proficiency in English, both written and spoken

Desirable skills:

• Hands-on experience with relevant methods for RNA design, synthesis and analysis, in vitro selection, and in vivo expression.
• Experience with selection or screening techniques such as SELEX, capture-SELEX, or high-throughput assays.
• Knowledge of strand displacement, molecular logic circuits, or related synthetic biology tools.
   

Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C  , Denmark. 

Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact:
Professor Ebbe Sloth Andersen, esa@inano.au.dk

How to apply:

For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see the Application guide. Please read the Application guide thoroughly before applying.

When ready to apply, go to https://phd.nat.au.dk/for-applicants/apply-here/ (Note, the online application system opens 1 March 2026)

1. Choose May 2026 Call with deadline 1 May 2026 at 23:59 CEST.
2. You will be directed to the call and must choose the programme “Molecular Biology and Genetics”.
3. In the boxed named “Study”: In the dropdown menu, please choose: “Designing Programmable RNA Circuits for Cellular Control (DPRNAC)”

Please note:

• The programme committee may request further information or invite the applicant to attend an interview.

At the Faculty of Natural Science at Aarhus University, we strive to support our scientific staff in their career development. We focus on competency development and career clarification and want to make your opportunities transparent. On our website, you can find information on all types of scientific positions, as well as the entry criteria we use when assessing candidates. You can also read more about how we can assist you in your career planning and development.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background.