Espen Rimstad

Professor Espen Rimstad is a leading virologist at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), affiliated with the School of Veterinary Science and the Virology Department. He leads a research group of 10–12 scientists focused on viral infections in fish, particularly in aquaculture species such as Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout.

His research interests include:

• Viral diseases in fish (e.g., pancreas disease, cardiomyopathy syndrome, HSMI)
• Vaccinology, including plant-made and mRNA-based vaccines
• Pathogenesis of piscine orthoreovirus (PRV), salmonid alphavirus (SAV), and infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV)
• Fish immunology and host-pathogen interactions
• Emerging viral threats in aquaculture

His recent publications reflect a strong trend in developing novel vaccine platforms, understanding immune responses in fish, and characterizing viral pathogenesis using advanced molecular and transcriptomic techniques. Many of his studies focus on improving fish health and aquaculture sustainability through science-based solutions.

Scientific contributions include:

• Over 329 publications with high citation impact
• Leadership in national risk assessments (e.g., VKM)
• Development of inactivated and live attenuated vaccines
• Pioneering work on mRNA-LNP delivery in fish

He has advised numerous students and researchers, though specific names are not listed. His work is supported by major research projects such as ViVaFish (Fish Virus Vaccines). He collaborates extensively with institutions like the Norwegian Veterinary Institute and international partners. He is also involved in ethical and environmental assessments related to aquaculture practices.

Rimstad is active in multiple laboratories and research networks, contributing to both fundamental and applied aspects of fish virology. His lab at NMBU is a hub for innovation in aquatic animal health, with ongoing work on viral diagnostics, vaccine development, and disease mitigation strategies.