Description
Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, invites applications for a postdoc position in translational mathematical modelling of energy expenditure - Prediction of clinical weight loss and whole-body energy expenditure from September 1st, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is limited to a period of 2 years and is part of an ongoing collaboration between Novo Nordisk and Roskilde University.
Obesity is a complex chronic disease affecting more than one billion people worldwide. During the last decade, a number of efficacious appetite-regulating obesity medications have been approved, and a key differentiator for future obesity therapies could be the modulation of energy expenditure (EE). However, the successful translation of EE-targeting interventions from preclinical research to clinical efficacy remains a major challenge, and only a limited number of such therapies have reached regulatory approval.
This project aims to refine and extend existing preclinical and clinical energy-balance models to improve the prediction of human weight loss induced by EE targets based on in vitro and animal data. The research will focus on emerging EE targets, organ-specific EE mechanisms, futile metabolic cycles, and other energy-expending processes. Ultimately, the project aims to strengthen translational predictability, advance our understanding of obesity pathophysiology, and support the development of novel obesity treatments.
Achieving reliable translation of EE effects from in vitro and preclinical studies to humans requires advanced nonlinear ordinary and stochastic differential equation (ODE/SDE) modelling, combined with quantitative system pharmacology (QSP) approaches. The modelling framework will integrate diverse in vitro and in vivo EE datasets from Novo Nordisk, supplemented by project-specific experimental studies where necessary.
About the department
The department of Science and Environment is one of four departments at Roskilde University. The Department conducts basic and applied research within mathematics, medical biology, physics, molecular biology, environmental sciences, and chemistry. Bachelor and Master programs are offered within these areas. Roskilde University is located close to Copenhagen with good train connections (30 min. from CPH central station).
About Mathematics in the department
mathematics at Roskilde University is broad enough to guarantee a general research-based education in applied mathematics but focused enough to ensure a strong international research profile with a strong emphasis on unique core activities of relevance for society. Mathematics has a strong focus on developing and applying mathematical models based on dynamical system theory within health and medicine as well as in green and clean technology.
The position is anchored in the section for Mathematics & Physics (IMFUFA) currently consisting of eighteen professors/associate professors/assistant professors, as well as a varying number of PhD-students, Postdocs, technical staff, etc. The focus of the research within the mathematics group is mainly on mathematical modelling of biological and physical systems with an emphasis on applying and developing dynamical system theory. Read more about the section at https://ruc.dk/en/research-group/mathematics-and-physics-imfufa.
Responsibilities and tasks
The postdoc’s work will include research within ODE- and SDE-modeling to perform QSP-modeling of Translational mathematical modelling of EE and prediction of clinical weight loss and whole-body energy expenditure.
The ideal candidate is expected to:
develop and implement mathematical models based on ODEs and SDEs,
to work with experimental data and model validation to better understand and predict physiology,
perform Bayesian inference to assess physiological model parameters,
combining analytical tools for ODEs and SDEs with QSP-modeling in an effective way,
be dedicated to applied mathematics and scientific computing,
work independently in close collaboration with supervisors at Roskilde University and scientists from Novo Nordisk,
be able to think out-of-the-box and help develop new ways to overcome research challenges.
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent within (applied) mathematics, scientific computing, quantitative biology, computational engineering or similar. Qualifications within the following scientific areas are required:
- possess solid knowledge in dynamical system theory, especially ODEs,
- possess experience with parameter estimation using Bayesian inference,
- possess a strong interest in modeling biological systems,
- should be proficient in programming e.g. in Python or Julia,
- have excellent written and oral English language communication skills,
- highly organized with strong attention to detail and a focus on quality results.
The ideal candidate shall possess good communication skills, be visible and involved in the department’s daily activities, in addition to being willing to engage in disciplinary and interdisciplinary collaboration across the department.
Assessment
In the assessment of the candidates, consideration will be given to:
- scientific production and research prospective,
- the ability to promote and utilize research results,
- experience in teaching and education,
- ability to contribute to development of the department’s internal and external cooperation,
- ability to find creative ways of solving challenges,
- eagerness to gain knowledge in new fields.
Questions
For further information about the postdoc, please contact Professor Johnny T. Ottesen, email: Johnny@ruc.dk or on tel. (+45) 4674-2298, or Head of Department Susanne Sørensen, email: susa@ruc.dk on tel. (+45) 4674-2111 / (+45) 6195-1197.
Terms of employment
The employment is on full time (37 hours per week) and you will refer to Professor Johnny T. Ottesen.
The position will be filled according to the Agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) and Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities.
According to the Pay Transparency Directive, the salary ranges for the various job categories at Roskilde University are listed here.
Application procedure
After the deadline for applications the Head of Department will shortlist applicants for assessment with assistance from the recruitment committee including the chairperson of the assessment committee.
Shortly after the application deadline all applicants will be notified whether or not their application has been selected for assessment.
The shortlisted applicants will be informed about the composition of the assessment committee, and each applicant will be given the opportunity to comment on the composition of the committee and - later on - their assessment.
Once the recruitment process is completed, all applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application.
Application
To apply for the position go to www.ruc.dk/en/job/
Only applications in English are accepted.
Applications must include:
1. Cover letter how the applicant matches the announced position and how the competencies of the applicant may contribute to the project
2. CV
3. Documentation of education
4. A complete list of publications
5. A maximum of 5 relevant scientific works that you want included in the assessment. If any of the publications that you want included in the assessment are the result of a joint effort, the extent and the nature of your contribution to each individual work must then be clarified in a co-author statement (find template here)
6. Optional: Teaching portfolio (read more about teaching portfolio at Roskilde University here)
Please submit your application no later than August 10, 2026.
Material received after this date will not be taken into consideration.
Roskilde University wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.
The hiring process at Roskilde University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.
