Postdoc in Bayesian Networks for Environmental Health Research - DTU Food

How can diverse and sometimes conflicting sources of scientific evidence be transparently integrated to support robust environmental health assessments? We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to develop innovative quantitative weight-of-evidence approaches based on Bayesian networks for environmental burden of disease studies.

The project aims to establish a novel framework for transparently and quantitatively integrating evidence from toxicology and epidemiology for evaluating the health impacts of environmental chemicals. You will be part of the Research Group for Risk-Benefit at the National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark (DTU).

The group is highly multidisciplinary and brings together researchers with expertise in epidemiology, nutrition, toxicology, microbiology, and modelling. Our research ranges from the development of methods for risk-benefit assessment, burden of disease and risk assessment, to the design and conduct of intervention studies.

We offer an ambitious, dynamic, and collaborative research environment with exciting scientific challenges and opportunities for professional development. The position is affiliated with the BurdenX project, funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark. The project aims to develop a novel quantitative framework for integrating diverse sources of evidence on associations between environmental chemical exposures and health effects while explicitly accounting for uncertainty in the underlying evidence, thereby supporting environmental burden of disease assessments.

Responsibilities

and qualifications You will conduct research on the use of Bayesian networks to integrate diverse sources of evidence from toxicology and epidemiology in environmental burden of disease assessments. The primary objective is to develop a quantitative and transparent weight-of-evidence framework that explicitly accounts for uncertainty in the evidence.

You will apply and demonstrate the framework through a case study on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The work will involve: Investigating the use of Bayesian networks for quantitative weight-of-evidence assessment of associations between environmental chemical exposures and adverse human health outcomes. Developing methods for integrating quantitative weight-of-evidence approaches into environmental burden of disease assessments.

Developing probabilistic environmental burden of disease model(s) for PFAS in collaboration with other project team members. Organizing and facilitating virtual meetings with international project partners. Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Presenting and disseminating research findings at international conferences and scientific meetings.

The ideal candidate: Has documented experience with Bayesian methods, preferably including Bayesian networks. Has an interest in applying quantitative methods to environmental health, toxicology, epidemiology, and/or risk assessment. Has strong analytical and problem-solving skills and is able to work independently. Thrives in collaborative and interdisciplinary research environments.

Works in a structured and detail-oriented manner. Has excellent written and oral communication skills in English. As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). We expect the degree to be in statistics, biostatistics, mathematics, data science, machine learning, systems biology, quantitative epidemiology, quantitative risk assessment, or related discipline.

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. In addition, supplements can be negotiated in accordance with DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures .

The period of employment is 2 years. Starting date will be in the beginning of 2027 or by 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 Senior Researcher, Sofie Theresa Thomsen on sthth@food.dtu.dk You can read more about DTU National Food Institute at https://www.

food.dtu.dk/english 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 1 November 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 At least one representative publication that demonstrates qualifications and experience relevant to the proposed research.

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.

DTU National Food Institute DTU National Food Institute conducts research into and disseminates - through advice, innovation and teaching - sustainable and value-creating solutions in the area of food and health for the benefit of society. The vision is to make a difference by generating future prosperity through research into food and health.

The institute works to prevent disease and promote health, develop new and better food products for a growing population and create sustainable technological solutions, including biosolutions. The institute’s tasks are carried out in interdisciplinary collaboration within e.g. nutrition, chemistry, toxicology, microbiology, epidemiology, modelling, and technology.

This is achieved through a strong academic environment of international top class with correspondingly skilled researchers and employees. The Institute employs approximately 390 staff members. 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.