Profile

As a Clinical Associate Professor and Rheumatology Specialist, I conduct translational research and clinical work in rheumatology and immunology. My primary focus is on autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus and related diseases, with a strong emphasis on innate immunity, coagulation, and pregnancy. 

Job responsibilities

My primary area of responsibility is translational research in rheumatology and immunology, including autoimmune pathogenesis, complement system activation, and clinical management of systemic lupus erythematosus. I also work with medical education, student supervision, and clinical practice and development at Aarhus University Hospital.

Research

I conduct research on autoimmune diseases, with a particular focus on systemic lupus erythematosus and the role of innate immunity. Using translational approaches, my goal is to uncover disease mechanisms that can lead to improved diagnostics and treatments. My research extends beyond disease mechanisms to encompass all aspects of living with a systemic autoimmune disease, from early diagnosis and optimizing treatment to improving long, term disease management and reducing complications, comorbidities, and organ damage. By integrating clinical and immunological research, I aim to enhance precision medicine in rheumatology, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Teaching

I teach clinical anatomy and rheumatology courses in medical degree programs at Aarhus University. Using interactive and case-based teaching methods, my goal is for students to develop a strong understanding of applying theory to real life and understanding disease mechanisms and clinical applications. 

Cooperation and dissemination

Since systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a specialized research area, international collaboration is essential for advancing the field. I work closely with several international research institutions across Scandinavia and Europe and serve on the executive committee of SLEuro. In Denmark, I contribute to the national SLE research network, SLEDAN. My collaborations focus on SLE and related autoimmune diseases, covering biomarker discovery, patient management, and treatment development.

Commissioned

Based on my research in immunology and rheumatology, I advise healthcare institutions and research committees on precision medicine approaches in autoimmune diseases. I am a member of several national and international boards and steering committees in rheumatology, and I am chair of the Danish national treatment guidelines in Rheumatology.