Postdoc in MiTag Single-Cell Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry - DTU Bioengineering

Transcription factors (TFs) are the master regulators of cell identity and fate, yet they have remained largely invisible to single-cell proteomics, expressed at levels too low for conventional mass spectrometry to detect. We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoc to join the Cell Diversity Lab at DTU Bioengineering to help change this, as part of the ProteoFATE project, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation Interdisciplinary Synergy Programme (2026–2030).


ProteoFATE is a landmark interdisciplinary project that combines three world-class disciplines to make TF dynamics measurable for the very first time: AI-guided minibinder design (Jenkins Lab, DTU), cutting-edge single-cell proteomics by mass spectrometry (Schoof Lab, DTU), and primary human hematopoiesis (Porse Lab, University of Copenhagen / Rigshospitalet). Together, we will engineer novel MiTag reagents, minibinder-based signal amplification tools, enabling the first simultaneous, global, and quantitative readout of TF protein dynamics alongside the complete proteome in individual human blood stem cells.


You will be the lead proteomics specialist for the project, serving as the critical bridge between the MiTag reagents engineered in the Jenkins Lab and their deployment on primary human cells with the Porse Lab. Your focus will be to push the boundaries of what single-cell proteomics by mass spectrometry (scp-MS) can detect, developing workflows that simultaneously capture global proteomes and multiplexed MiTag signals from individual cells. This position provides exceptional interdisciplinary training, spanning mass spectrometry, AI-guided protein design, and stem cell hematology, within a highly collaborative consortium tackling a question that has resisted measurement for decades.

Responsibilities and qualifications

Your overall focus will be to design, optimize, and deploy scp-MS workflows that reliably detect MiTag-derived peptides alongside global proteomes in primary human hematopoietic cells, establishing the quantitative and technical foundation on which the entire ProteoFATE project depends. This is fundamentally an LC-MS-driven role with direct biological impact: you will be among the first in the world to quantify transcription factors at single-cell resolution using mass spectrometry.


Your core activities will include:

• Develop and optimize DIA-based scp-MS acquisition methods on the Orbitrap Astral that simultaneously capture global proteomes and multiplexed MiTag peptides in a single run, including hybrid DIA (iDIA) strategies for targeted MiTag readout alongside untargeted proteome acquisition


• Optimize fixation and permeabilization protocols for intracellular MiTag staining in human CD34+ HSPCs, compatible with downstream high-sensitivity scp-MS


• Rigorously benchmark MiTag performance in terms of sensitivity, specificity, throughput, and quantitative reproducibility, validated against orthogonal assays such as intracellular FACS and CITEseq


• Investigate the multiplexing capacity of MiTags and characterize the relationship between signal amplification and TF detection sensitivity across the hematopoietic hierarchy


• Work in an iterative feedback loop with the Jenkins Lab (MiTag design) to guide reagent refinement based on MS performance, and with the Porse Lab to transfer optimized workflows to primary human bone marrow samples


• Dissemination of results through publications in leading journals and presentations at international conferences (e.g. ASMS, HUPO, EuPA, iSCMS, etc.)


• Mentoring of junior lab members (BSc., MSc. and PhD students) and active contribution to the collaborative culture across DTU and KU

You are expected to have:

• PhD in biochemistry, (bio)analytical chemistry, cell biology, or a closely related field


• Extensive hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS-based proteomics, including at least 2–3 years of daily operation of high-end instruments (Orbitrap series strongly preferred)


• Strong track record in DIA-based proteomics workflows, ideally including wide-window/WISH-DIA or hybrid targeted/untargeted acquisition strategies (iDIA, SureQuant, or equivalent)


• Demonstrated experience in single-cell proteomics (scp-MS), including low-input sample preparation, single-cell isolation, and liquid handling automation


• Proficiency in computational proteomics data analysis (DIA-NN, MSFragger, Spectronaut, or equivalent) and downstream analysis in R or Python


• Documented ability to drive independent research from conception through to publication


• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Experience with any of the following is highly desirable:

• Targeted proteomics approaches (SRM/PRM, SureQuant IS, or reagent-based enrichment of low-abundance proteins)


• FACS-based cell sorting, intracellular staining, or CyTOF/spectral flow cytometry


• Mammalian cell culture, including primary hematopoietic cells


• Integration, analysis and interpretation of larger single-cell datasets (preferably scp-MS)

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment 

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.


The period of employment is 3 years. Starting date is 1 October 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.


You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 

Further information may be obtained from Professor Erwin M. Schoof, DTU Bioengineering ([email protected]).


You can read more about the Cell Diversity Lab at www.bioengineering.dtu.dk. 


If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 August 2026 (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)


• CV


• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)


• List of publications 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.


All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

The Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering) is an international leader in the areas of biotechnology and biomedicine. Our engineering approach to all aspects of biotechnology and biomedicine positions us as a valuable player with unique competences in a growing bio-based economy and with health systems transforming towards personalized medicine. We have a clear focus on the needs in the life science- and biotech industries and point towards innovation, new businesses, and scientific services for the benefit of society. The department has extensive collaborations with national and international research units and industry. DTU Bioengineering has approx. 400 employees, of which 2/3 are scientific staff. The department is located at DTU Lyngby Campus.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.