PhD Position in Basic Migraine Research

PhD position at the Translational Research Centre (TRACE), Sensory Biology Unit

The position is a full-time, three-year PhD position available from 1 October 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, and is funded by the Lundbeck Foundation.

The workplace is the Sensory Biology Unit at the Translational Research Centre (TRACE), Rigshospitalet, Glostrup.

The PhD project will focus on fundamental mechanisms involved in migraine pathophysiology, with particular emphasis on sensory and trigeminovascular signalling. You will primarily work with rodent models of migraine using mainly ex vivo approaches combined with selected in vivo experiments. The project will investigate cellular signalling mechanisms involving key neuropeptides and neurotransmitters within migraine-relevant intracranial structures. Experimental methods will include advanced methodologies for neuropeptide detection, calcium imaging, optogenetics, and development and application of ex vivo models.

The workplace

The Sensory Biology Unit is led by Professor Kristian A. Haanes and focuses on understanding fundamental mechanisms underlying sensory innervation, with particular emphasis on pain-related sensory neurons and migraine mechanisms.

Your profile

You should be a proactive and motivated researcher with:

• An MSc degree in life sciences or a related field.

• Research experience within pain or migraine research will be considered a strong advantage, with particular emphasis placed on experience relevant to experimental migraine models, trigeminal biology, or sensory neuroscience.

• Practical experience with calcium imaging or related experimental techniques will be considered a strong advantage.

• A valid European FELASA qualification for laboratory animal work is required at the start of employment.

• Strong English communication skills, both orally and in writing.

• Excellent collaborative skills and an interest in experimental and translational research.

Your position

You will be employed in a full-time PhD position for three years and enrolled in the PhD School at DTU Health Tech, Technical University of Denmark (DTU). The PhD project will be conducted at TRACE, Rigshospitalet, with Professor Kristian A. Haanes and the Sensory Biology Unit.

Funding for the PhD project is secured. As part of the PhD training, you will also be expected to contribute to applications for additional research funding.

Salary and Terms of Employment

Salary, pension, and terms of employment are in accordance with the agreement between Danish Regions and the relevant professional organisation. Salary will depend on educational background and seniority.

We consider diversity a strength and encourage qualified applicants regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, disability, or religion to apply.

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Motivation letter, maximum 1 page.

• Curriculum Vitae summarising education, positions, research experience, and academic work, maximum 2 pages.

• Copies of relevant educational certificates, including documentation of a completed MSc degree.

• Documentation of a valid European FELASA qualification for laboratory animal work.

Applications must be submitted online through the Region H job portal.

Application deadline: 7th of September 2026 at 12:00 CET.

Applications will be evaluated continuously, and selected applicants may be invited for interview before the application deadline.

For further information regarding the position, please contact Professor Kristian A. Haanes at khaa0039@regionh.dk.