Bo Thisted Simonsen

Bo Thisted Simonsen serves as Deputy Director of the Section of Forensic Genetics within the Department of Forensic Medicine at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. With a career spanning over three decades at the institution, he has progressed from PhD student (1994-1997) to his current leadership role since 2007, contributing extensively to forensic genetics research and education.

Education:

• PhD in Population Genetics (1997)
• MSc in Population Biology (1993)
• BSc in Ecology (1990)

Simonsen's research centers on molecular markers for forensic identification of individuals and family relationships, ethnic identification, and the analysis of genetic variation in large terrestrial mammals. His work integrates population genetics, evolutionary biology, and ecology to understand patterns of genetic diversity and their historical origins, with direct applications in forensic science and conservation.

Recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on advancing forensic genetic methodologies, including accreditation standards (ISO/IEC 17025), contamination control in laboratories, nationwide criminal case analyses, and international relationship testing workshops. His research bridges human forensic applications and wildlife conservation genetics, particularly in primate populations.

Scientific Awards: No specific awards are mentioned in the available information.

As an educator, Simonsen teaches forensic genetics to medical students, biology students, and judicial personnel. He also delivers pre- and postgraduate instruction in evolution, population biology, and genetics. While specific grant details are not provided, his leadership in the Section of Forensic Genetics and active research output indicate significant institutional and collaborative funding support.

Simonsen operates within the Section of Forensic Genetics at the University of Copenhagen, collaborating closely with the English Speaking Working Group of the International Society for Forensic Genetics. His work involves national forensic databases and international workshops, contributing to global standards in forensic genetic analysis.