Call for applications for a fully financed PhD fellowship
This scientific project investigates how environmental pollutants affect the health of children and families in Greenland over time. It builds on the established ACCEPT birth cohort, following mother–child pairs from pregnancy into adolescence.
In 2026, the project will conduct a regionally new follow-up of 200 Greenlandic children aged 9–13 and their mothers. By combining biological samples with detailed questionnaire data on diet, lifestyle, and health, the study will measure exposure to environmental contaminants, including PFAS, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and heavy metals.
The Arctic is particularly vulnerable to long-range transported pollution, and previous research has shown that these substances can accumulate in humans and may impact immune, neurological, and hormonal systems. Early life exposure, especially during pregnancy, can have lasting effects on child development and health.
A key strength of the project is its longitudinal design. By comparing new data with earlier measurements collected during pregnancy (2013–2015) and early childhood (2019–2020), the study will identify trends in exposure over time and assess how these relate to health outcomes in adolescence.
The project contributes to international Arctic monitoring efforts and supports public health decision-making in Greenland. Its findings will help to give dietary recommendations, risk communication, and environmental policies aimed at reducing harmful exposures.
By linking environmental science with human health data, ACCEPT Follow-up II provides critical knowledge to protect current and future generations in the Arctic.
Knowledge of human research Greenland is prefered. Being able to conduct the study both in Greenland and at the University of Aarhus.
Please submit your application via this link. Application deadline is 1 June 2026 23:59 CET. Preferred starting date is 1 July 2026.
For information about application requirements and mandatory attachments, please see our application guide.
Please contact Associate Professor Manhai Long, ml@ph.au.dk for more information.
All interested candidates are encouraged to apply, regardless of their personal background. Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with applicable collective agreement.
