Jonas Heilskov Graversen

Jonas Heilskov Graversen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), Faculty of Health Sciences. He is a key member of the Cancer and Inflammation Research Unit, where his work bridges molecular immunology, structural biology, and translational medicine.

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Aarhus University (awarded 2000)
• MSc in Chemistry and Biotechnology, Aarhus University (awarded 1997)
• Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (Situational Leadership in Research Groups), Aarhus University (awarded 2015)

His research focuses on macrophage biology, particularly the CD163-haptoglobin system in inflammation and disease. He investigates molecular mechanisms of hemoglobin scavenging, biomarker discovery in metabolic liver diseases (MASLD/NASH), and retinal vascular pathologies. His work integrates structural biology (cryo-EM), proteomics, and in vivo models to understand inflammatory processes.

Recent publications highlight his contributions to understanding CD163’s role in the blood-nerve barrier, structural insights into receptor-ligand interactions, and the development of non-invasive biomarkers for liver disease. His work on SARS-CoV-2 epitope mapping also demonstrates expertise in advanced protein analysis techniques.

He actively participates in research projects and collaborations, including serving as Co-PI in the Center for Functional Genomics and Tissue Plasticity and as Project Manager in the PROMETHEUS study. His research has been featured in international media, emphasizing its clinical relevance.

Graversen has supervised multiple PhD students and contributes to national science policy through participation in grant review panels such as Innovationsfonden and Helse Sør-Øst RHF. His interdisciplinary approach spans molecular medicine, immunology, and clinical diagnostics.