Project employee (14 months fixed-term) – Microbiologist with NF-RO membrane filtration experience

VIA University College is one of Denmark’s largest educational institutions. Through education, applied research, and innovation, VIA collaborates closely with private and public partners to create solutions with real societal impact.

You will be applying for a position in the Research Centre for the Built Environment, Climate and Water Technology at VIA University College. The centre conducts applied research at the intersection of the built environment, climate adaptation, and water and energy systems. We collaborate closely with municipalities, utilities, and private companies to develop, test, and implement future-proof technologies. You will become a part of the Research Programme for Water Technology, which works with water treatment, water quality, industrial microbiology etc., with strong emphasis on implementation, real-world relevance, and collaboration with practice-based stakeholders.

The position

VIA University College is seeking a highly motivated and technically proficient Project Employee for a 14 months fixed-term position. The role supports applied R&D activities and delivery of project outcomes within two specific areas of which the candidate must be able to cover both: 1) Legionella and biofilm in hot water systems and water treatment in NF-RO filtration systems.

You will join a strong research team and work closely with utilities, municipalities, companies and international research partners. Our activities span the full TRL range—from early-stage concepts and modelling to full-scale demonstration and implementation with real consumers.

This position is well suited for a candidate who thrives with responsibility, works independently, and can maintain progress in periods where colleagues and partners may be less available day-to-day.

Main responsibilities and tasks

The role will support applied R&D spanning both literature studies and operating and documentation of pilot-scale systems. Typical tasks may include:

• Supporting technical project execution and structured delivery of milestones and outputs
• Establishing an overview of Legionella treatment methods
• Contributing to establishing a framework for testing Legionella treatment methods
• Supporting Water Safety Plans guidance for on-site treatment of Legionella
• Contributing to setting up and testing operational performance of an NF-RO pilot system
• Contributing to a holistic risk assessment of NF-RO reject streams
• Contributing to dissemination activities such as peer reviewed papers, presentations, meetings, workshops, and collaboration with external stakeholders
• Project management 

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate with strong technical skills and a professional, structured working style.

We expect that you have:

• A relevant higher education degree (PhD required) within e.g. microbiology or environmental engineering
• Strong interest and competence within water quality and treatment and applied research
• Experience with technical analysis, and structured documentation
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English (Danish is an advantage, but not required), and writing peer reviewed papers
• Motivation to work in a practical, stakeholder-oriented research environment

Experience in one or more of the following areas is an advantage:

• Environmental microbiology with experience in studying chemical and microbiological parameters in complex environmental systems
• Experiences with the application of microbial monitoring techniques for detection and surveillance of waterborne microorganisms such as Legionella
• Extensive experience in interpretation of chemical and microbiological data for risk assessment and process optimization
• Experience with operation of (pilot-scale) RO systems
• Experience with interdisciplinary research projects combining microbiology, environmental engineering, and data analysis
• Preparation of research proposals and peer review papers

Personal competencies

A perfect match across every technical sub-topic is not required, however, the candidate must have a microbiological background and have knowledge on critical parameters for efficient operation of RO systems. We are looking for a candidate with strong professional traits and the right working style, including:

• Independent and mature in execution
• Comfortable taking ownership and managing tasks end-to-end
• Strong project management instincts (planning, follow-up, deadlines, structured delivery)
• Collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to shared team success

We offer

At VIA, you will join a highly relevant research environment and work with projects that have direct societal impact.

We offer:

• A dynamic and impact-focused role in the water sector
• Close collaboration with strong industry stakeholders and international partners
• A professional and supportive team culture with high ambitions
• A position with responsibility, autonomy, and opportunity for professional development
• Access to applied research platforms, demonstration activities, and real-world datasets

Application process (mandatory)

Applications must be submitted no later than September 24th.

Please include:

• CV
• Short application letter (motivation and relevant qualifications)
• Diplomas and relevant documentation (if applicable)

Interviews are expected to be conducted shortly after the deadline.

Contact

For further information about the position, please contact:
Head of Research Programme in Water Technology, Ditte A. Søborg
VIA University College
Email: dans@via.dk

Workplace and terms of employment

• Workplace: VIA University College, Campus Horsens, Denmark
• On-site presence required: This is not a remote position
• Employment conditions: According to relevant collective agreements and local arrangements
• Duration: 1.11.2026 - 31.12.2027
• Working hours: Part-time  (30 hours per week). There may be an opportunity to increase working hours in the future.

Depending on your educational background, employment will be governed either by the applicable overenskomst for akademikere i staten or by the fællesoverenskomsten for LC/CO10 and the organisationsaftalen for undervisere på erhvervsakademier og professionshøjskoler.

The place of employment is VIA University College, Horsens Campus. However, duties and days on duty may be expected at other locations, when relevant. 

The appointment is made in accordance with the Staff Regulations for the education programmes diplomingeniøruddannelsen og eksportingeniøruddannelsen:

Cirkulære om stillingsstruktur ved diplomingeniøruddannelsen og eksportingeniøruddannelsen | Regler, aftaler og cirkulærer

WE are VIA
VIA is one of Denmark’s largest educational institutions, with locations throughout the Central Denmark Region. We educate and provide continuing education for teachers, nurses, engineers, designers and many more. We develop our programmes in close collaboration with practice. We are a workplace that offers flexibility, freedom, and strong opportunities for development. If you are curious about what it’s like to work at VIA, you can read some of our stories here.

At VIA, we value competence and talent in all its forms. We believe in the strength of diversity and welcome everyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, or background. We therefore encourage everyone to apply for the position and become part of an inclusive community.

Read more about VIA University College at http://www.via.dk/

Read information about the use of personal data in connection with recruitment at this link: https://via.career.emply.com/persondatapolitik