Lisbeth Truelstrup Hansen

Lisbeth Truelstrup Hansen is a Professor and Head of the Research Group for Food Microbiology and Hygiene at the National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark (DTU), where she leads research in microbial food safety, environmental hygiene, and pathogen survival mechanisms. She is also affiliated with the DTU Microbes Initiative and actively contributes to projects addressing food safety, Arctic sanitation, and public health.

• University: Technical University of Denmark
• School: National Food Institute
• Department: Research Group for Food Microbiology and Hygiene
• Role: Professor and Research Group Head

Her research focuses on microbial food safety, with particular emphasis on Listeria monocytogenes, biofilm formation, hygiene in food production, and innovative preservation and detection methods. She also investigates water and environmental hygiene, including sewage management in Arctic regions under climate change. Her work supports UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean water, sanitation, and good health.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in applying genomics, machine learning, and predictive modeling to food safety challenges. Her team investigates disinfectant resistance in Listeria, growth modeling of Bacillus cereus, and quality assessment in seafood and processed foods, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach combining microbiology, environmental science, and data science.

Scientific Contributions:

• Lead researcher in multiple national and international projects
• Active contributor to food safety policy and public discourse
• Regular media and conference speaker on hygiene and food safety topics

Lisbeth Truelstrup Hansen supervises several PhD students and collaborates across disciplines on grants related to foodborne pathogens, climate impact on water quality, and sustainable food production. She has led or co-led projects such as 'ArcticSewlution' and 'ILLUQ. PERMAFROST – POLLUTION - HEALTH', which integrate environmental engineering with microbiology for public health outcomes.

She is involved in key research labs and teams including the Research Group for Food Microbiology and Hygiene and the DTU Microbes Initiative, which focus on pathogen detection, biofilm dynamics, and hygiene solutions for the food industry.