Does the Researcher permit require a certified employer, and does it lead to permanent residence?

Unlike the Fast-track Scheme, the ordinary Researcher route does not depend on the institution being SIRI-certified, so a non-certified research employer can still hire you under this scheme. If speed matters and the employer is certified, the Fast-track researcher track is an alternative.

The Researcher permit is employment-based and expires when the job ends. It does not directly become permanent residence, but the years you spend living and working legally in Denmark can count toward a separate permanent-residence application later, provided you meet those rules.