Research

During the past 10 years, I have fostered a research environment that has expanded to include more than 65 researchers.  Our department’s research group is currently (2025) ranked 7th in the world of infectious medicine clinical research trials. To support our research, we receive approximately 40 million DKK annually in research funding. 

Total number of peer-reviewed publications: 394 (Scopus; January 2025) 
No. of citations: 20.247 (incl. self-citations) (Scopus; January 2025)
H-index: 68 (Scopus; April  2025) 

Profile

I am a leading international expert in the field of infectious diseases, and have a strong track record within basic, translational, clinical and public health research and innovation in the area of infectious diseases. 

I have an extensive educational curriculum, and I have served on several boards including advisory role to the Danish Health Authority, spin-out companies and private and public funding agencies. 

Commissioned

2020 – 2023      Counsellor for the Danish Health Authorities for the handling of Covid-19

2020 – 2021      Member of the expert group at Folketinget as regards the handling of Covid-19

2016 – 2021      Board Member, The organisation of Danish Medical Societies (LVS)

2016 – present  Chair of Review Committee, The "PhD Cup", public dissemination

2015 – present  National Medical Lead in infectious diseases, Trial Nation (formerly known as NEXT)

2015 – 2021      Board Member, "Folkeuniversitetet" Aarhus and Emdrup appointed by AU

2006 – 2022      President and Chairman of the Board 2015-2019, The Nordic Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (NSCMID)

2006 – 2016      Board Member and Chairman of the Board (2008-2016), The Danish AIDS Foundation

Teaching

I have had the privilege of mentoring physicians through continuing education programs, helping them to further their expertise in specialized areas of medicine. Furthermore, I have, as an academic course leader, successfully led numerous research training programs aimed at enhancing the research acumen of both students and professionals. My leadership in these programs has fostered a culture of innovation and scientific inquiry, enabling participants to engage in high-quality research. 

Job responsibilities

My primary research area is the interplay between the microbe and the host with a particular focus on HIV, COVID-19, meningococcal disease, and now shifting toward focus on antimicrobial resistance, persister cells and implant infections. 

Additionally, I have contributed to several international advisory boards and editorial boards, particularly in the UK, Ireland, the US, Sweden and Norway. The combination of international experience and international co-workers has contributed greatly to the expansion of my international network and my ability to set up research programs within new scientific areas.