PhD Fellowship in Biocomplexity

PhD Fellowship in Biocomplexity

The Niels Bohr Institute invites applicants for a PhD fellowship in biocomplexity under the supervision of Associate Professor of Biophysics Ala Trusina. This project focuses on the development of bio‑inspired algorithms to direct the emergence of 3D complex shapes in both biological and artificial systems. Starting date is expected to be 1 May 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Living systems are fascinating computers. Based on constantly changing inputs, our bodies do the right thing in the right place and time. Biological multicellular computation is precise, able to error‑correct and self‑repair. How do living systems achieve this? The explanation may lie in the physical nature of computation, where, unlike in modern computers, information is encoded and processed in real time and space by gradients of signaling molecules and cell communication.

This PhD project aims to understand and manipulate the morphogenetic processes that form biological structures and apply these insights to the design of algorithms for programmable, self‑organising artificial systems. It is part of the activities of the Trusina lab at NBI (Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen), bridging artificial intelligence and biophysical modelling with developmental and stem cell biology to create novel distributed physical computation algorithms.

Work in morphogenetic engineering aims to create human‑engineered systems with the desirable properties of natural morphogenesis, such as increased robustness, adaptability, and the ability to self‑repair. In this project, we will focus on easily manipulatable in‑vitro 2D gastrulation. The project will combine cell‑culture experiments, time‑lapse and fixed‑sample imaging, and models (agent‑based and continuum approaches) of patterning during in‑vitro gastrulation.

We are part of the Unibiolab, in the Biocomplexity section at the Niels Bohr Institute. We are interested in uncovering the unifying principles in complex biological systems. We combine theoretical and computational models with quantitative experiments and collaborate across physics, biology and medicine. Our current focus is on what cells can achieve collectively, and how far they can go beyond what single cells can do on their own.

At Biocomplexity we offer a creative and exciting research atmosphere at the vibrant border between AI, physics and biology, with research ranging from viruses to development in humans and plants.

We seek a highly motivated and creative candidate with a robust background in computer science or physics and a strong interest in applying these skills to biological and robotic systems. We also look for a candidate with a strong interest in combining computational models with experiments (cell culture and microscopy).

• A Master’s degree in physics, applied mathematics, computational biology, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and computational skills.
• A passionate interest in interdisciplinary research that bridges theoretical biophysics, biology and practical technological applications.
• Excellent English proficiency.

Associate Professor Ala Trusina, Biocomplexity Section, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, trusina.dk.

Depending on your level of education, you can undertake the PhD programme as either:

This option is available if you already have an education equivalent to a relevant Danish master’s degree.

This option is available if you do not have an education equivalent to a relevant Danish master’s degree but have an education equivalent to a Danish bachelor's degree.

To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc). For…