Frederik Poulsen

Frederik Poulsen (born 1984) serves as Associate Professor of Old Testament at the Faculty of Theology, University of Copenhagen, where he leads the Section of Biblical Exegesis. Holding a PhD (2014) and dr.theol. (2019) from the same institution, his scholarly profile bridges historical exegesis with contemporary theological relevance, particularly through migration and diaspora frameworks.

His educational trajectory culminated in doctoral research on Isaiah 42:1-9 and habilitation on exile in Isaiah, with formative visiting positions at Oxford, Jerusalem, Bonn, and Yale. Primary research domains include: (1) Exile as literary-theological theme across prophetic literature; (2) Biblical theology through canon/Septuagint studies; (3) Old Testament prophets (specializing in Isaiah); (4) Old Testament as Christian Scripture in liturgical contexts. Recent work examines diaspora communities in Egypt/Mesopotamia, return migration, and Esther narratives.

Analysis of his 2024-2025 publications reveals concentrated exploration of migration in Genesis (Jacob/Joseph), Esther, and Daniel, increasingly connecting ancient texts to modern migration theory and Muslim-Christian dialogue. This interdisciplinary thrust aligns with his leadership in the Sapere Aude-funded "Divergent Views of Diaspora" project.

His scientific recognition includes:

• The Nils Klim Prize (2020)
• Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters' Silver Medal (2020)

As principal investigator, Poulsen directs major funded initiatives: the current "Divergent Views of Diaspora in Ancient Judaism" project (2022-2026, Independent Research Fund Denmark), preceded by "Stories in a Strange Land" (2018-2021, Carlsberg Foundation) and "Images of Exile" (2015-2017, Independent Research Fund Denmark). His advisory role encompasses PhD supervision and academic leadership within the Faculty of Theology.