Research

A main part of my research is focused on welfare assessment of poultry, both in terms of surveys and in terms of development and validation of the methods used during assessments. Focus is also on abnormal and unwanted behaviour and the associated welfare consequences, including both negative and positive affective states. I investigate the underlying motivations and develop preventive methods, e.g. through changes in early rearing conditions, design of housing equipment and allocation of environmental enrichment. 

Commissioned

I am involved in knowledge transfer to the industry, NGOs and competent authorities on both national and international level. I provide research-based consultancy to the Danish Authorities (supporting body) and the competent authorities in the EU (core member of the coordination team of EU Reference Centre for Welfare of poultry & other small farmed animals). In addition, I am a member of the Panel of Animal Health and Welfare (AHAW) under the European Food and Safety Authority (EFSA).

Cooperation and dissemination

I collaborate with universities, the poultry industry, associated suppliers and NGOs on national and international level.

Teaching

I am teaching several topics within animal behaviour and welfare, I function as examinator/opponent and I supervise students. This is done on all levels, including bachelor, master, profesional master and PhD.