Bjørn Thomassen

Bjørn Thomassen is a Professor of Global Political Sociology at Roskilde University's Department of Social Sciences and Business. He currently serves as Interim Pro-rector, leading the university's research and innovation strategy. His academic career includes roles at the European Research Council and Danish Research Council, as well as teaching and research coordination in sociology. Thomassen specializes in religion and politics, globalization, nationalism, and urban studies, with a focus on Italy and Southern Europe. He has published extensively, including books with Oxford and Cambridge University Press, and contributes to public discourse through media columns.

Research interests span interdisciplinary themes such as identity politics, memory studies, and sociological theory. Recent work explores Italian politics and the intersection of religion with modernity. Thomassen’s teaching emphasizes student-driven learning, particularly in sociology and global development studies. He coordinates the Sociology program at the bachelor’s level and supervises student research projects.

His articles and books reflect a focus on liminality, cultural narratives, and the sociopolitical dynamics of global modernity. Collaborations include projects like CESGM (Catholic Ethic and the Spirit of Global Modernities) and international research networks. External roles include visiting scholar positions and media engagement via Kristeligt Dagblad and international outlets.