Runar Almaas

Runar Almaas is a Professor II at the Pediatric Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo. He is actively affiliated with Oslo University Hospital (OUS), Rikshospitalet, where his research is centered on pediatric liver diseases, transplantation outcomes, and neonatal neurology.

His research interests are highly specialized and impactful, focusing on pediatric hepatology, particularly cholestatic diseases and Aagenaes syndrome, liver transplantation and its long-term effects on neurocognition and allergy development, and the fundamental mechanisms of bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity in human neuronal models. His work bridges clinical observation with basic science, utilizing advanced techniques like iPSC-derived liver organoids and metabolomic profiling of dried blood spots.

The trends in his recent articles (2020-2024) show a strong emphasis on developing and applying innovative diagnostic and research platforms. A key theme is the use of organoid technology to model liver function and test drug effects. Another major focus is on biomarker discovery for rare pediatric liver conditions, using non-invasive methods like dried blood spots and advanced imaging. His work consistently aims to improve the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of complex pediatric liver and metabolic disorders.

Scientific Contributions and Recognition:

• His research has been published in high-impact journals such as Journal of Hepatology, Pediatric Research, and Liver Transplantation.
• He has made significant contributions to understanding the etiology of Aagenaes syndrome and the complications following pediatric liver transplantation.

Advising and Collaborative Network: Dr. Almaas has a vast collaborative network, frequently publishing with researchers from OUS and across the Nordic region. His work on multicenter studies indicates a leadership role in collaborative clinical research. While specific student names are not listed, his senior authorship on numerous publications suggests he plays a significant role in mentoring junior researchers and clinicians.

Laboratories and Research Teams: His work is conducted within the Pediatric Research Institute at OUS, Rikshospitalet. His research teams appear to be interdisciplinary, combining expertise in pediatrics, hepatology, neurology, molecular biology, and clinical chemistry. His publications on microdialysis in liver transplants and neuronal cell culture point to specialized laboratory facilities for both clinical monitoring and in vitro experimentation.