NMBU Postdoctoral Fellowship within Biotechnology (2026) – Fully Funded

Scholarship Description

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Fellowship within Biotechnology. This prestigious position offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their research in cutting-edge biotechnology fields, including molecular biology, genetic engineering, synthetic biology, bioprocessing, and sustainable biotechnology solutions. The successful candidate will join a dynamic and internationally recognised research environment at the Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science (KBM).

NMBU is located in Ås, Norway, approximately 30 kilometres south of Oslo. The university is a leader in biosciences, environmental sciences, and sustainable development. Norway offers an outstanding quality of life, beautiful natural surroundings, excellent social benefits, and a supportive research culture that values work-life balance.

Fellowship Location

The postdoctoral fellowship is based at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) in Ås, Norway. Ås is a picturesque university town with excellent connections to Oslo, offering a perfect blend of academic excellence and natural beauty. The region provides abundant opportunities for outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and cycling.

Application Deadline

The position is open until filled, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Host Institution

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) – a leading international university specialising in biosciences, environmental sciences, biotechnology, food science, and sustainable development. NMBU is consistently ranked among the world's top universities for its research impact and commitment to addressing global challenges in food security, environmental protection, and bioeconomy.

Level and Field of Study

Level: Postdoctoral Fellowship (typically 2–3 years, with possible extension).

Field: Biotechnology. Specific research areas may include:

• Molecular biology and genetic engineering
• Synthetic biology and metabolic engineering
• Enzyme technology and protein engineering
• Fermentation and bioprocessing
• Microbial biotechnology
• Plant biotechnology and genetic modification
• Biocatalysis and green chemistry
• Bioinformatics and computational biology
• Biomaterial development
• Industrial biotechnology and circular bioeconomy

Target Group

The fellowship is open to highly motivated postdoctoral researchers from all countries who have recently completed their PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a closely related field. NMBU welcomes international applicants and provides a supportive, multicultural research environment.

Fellowship Duration & Amount

Duration: Typically 2 to 3 years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding and performance.

Funding: This is a fully funded postdoctoral position with a competitive salary according to the Norwegian state salary scale.

Estimated annual salary: Approximately NOK 550,000 – 620,000 (approx. €52,000 – 58,000 / USD $55,000 – 61,000) depending on qualifications and seniority.

Benefits include:

• Full social security and pension benefits (membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund)
• Paid holiday leave (including 5 weeks of annual vacation)
• Parental leave and generous family benefits under the Norwegian welfare system
• Access to university housing at reduced rates
• Office space, modern laboratory facilities, and research equipment
• Funding for conference travel and research collaborations
• Excellent work-life balance and a supportive research environment
• Norwegian language courses available for international staff

Fellowship Eligibility

Required qualifications:

• A PhD degree (or equivalent) in biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, microbiology, plant science, or a closely related field. The PhD must have been completed within the last 4 years (exceptions may apply for career breaks).
• A strong publication record in peer-reviewed international journals commensurate with the stage of career.
• Documented expertise in one or more core biotechnology techniques (molecular cloning, protein expression, fermentation, analytical methods, etc.).
• Excellent written and oral English communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Desirable skills (not mandatory):

• Experience with project management and supervision of master's or PhD students.
• Grant writing experience.
• Knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (helpful but not required).
• Experience with industry collaboration or technology transfer.

Application Procedure

1. Review the job advertisement – Visit the Jobbnorge portal (job ID 303356) or the NMBU website for the official announcement and any updates on specific research projects and supervisor information.
2. Prepare application documents – Gather the following materials in PDF format:
   • Cover letter (1–2 pages) – explaining your motivation for applying, your research interests in biotechnology, and how your background aligns with the position and NMBU's research priorities.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV) – including education, employment history, research experience, publications, presentations, technical skills, and language proficiency.
   • Publication list – with full citations and indication of impact (journal impact factor, citations if relevant).
   • Research statement (2–3 pages) – outlining your past research achievements and future research plans and goals for the fellowship period.
   • Copies of PhD degree certificate and academic transcripts.
   • Copy of PhD thesis (summary or full text, if available).
   • Contact information for 2–3 academic referees (letters may be requested later).
   • English language test results (if PhD was not completed in English, IELTS or TOEFL may be required).
3. Submit your application – Applications must be submitted through the official Jobbnorge portal (job ID 303356) or via the NMBU application system. Do not send applications via email unless specified.
4. Application review – NMBU reviews applications on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews (online or in-person).
5. Interviews – Selected candidates will be invited for an interview to discuss their research background, technical skills, and alignment with the research group's goals.
6. Reference checks – References will be contacted for finalist candidates.
7. Offer and acceptance – The successful candidate receives a formal offer of employment as a Postdoctoral Fellow.
8. Relocation and start – NMBU provides support for international candidates with visa applications, housing, and integration into Norwegian society.

Important notes: The position is open until filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. NMBU is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. Norwegian work visa regulations apply for non-EU/EEA candidates.

Official Website & Application Link

NMBU Postdoctoral Fellowship – Official Jobbnorge Posting

NMBU Main Website: https://www.nmbu.no/en

Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science (KBM): https://www.nmbu.no/en/faculty/kbm

For inquiries: Contact information for the principal investigator or head of department is available on the Jobbnorge job posting page.