Ida Thøfner

Ida Thøfner is an Associate Professor in Veterinary Clinical Microbiology at the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. With expertise in poultry pathology and diseases, her research primarily focuses on pathogenesis and host response, particularly in relation to keel bone fractures in laying hens since 2016.

Her academic credentials include:

• 2020: Universitetspædagogikum (Teaching and Learning in Higher Education Programme), University of Copenhagen
• 2013: PhD, University of Copenhagen
• 2011: FELASA Category C license
• 2000: DVM, The Royal Veterinary & Agricultural University, Copenhagen

Dr. Thøfner's research centers on poultry pathology, with special emphasis on keel bone fractures in laying hens. Her work extensively utilizes experimental in vivo models to evaluate clinical and pathological significance. She investigates host-pathogen interactions, poultry diseases, and pathology with focus on understanding disease mechanisms and developing improved diagnostic approaches. Her research bridges veterinary clinical microbiology with practical applications in poultry production and welfare, making significant contributions to both scientific understanding and industry practices.

Her publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on laying hen welfare issues, particularly skeletal disorders and mortality causes in commercial settings. The research spans veterinary pathology, microbiology, and epidemiology, with strong methodological approaches including longitudinal studies and pathological characterization. Her work has gained recognition through citations and media coverage.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• IVHs kommunikationspris 2021 (IVH Communication Prize 2021)

Dr. Thøfner actively contributes to the veterinary community through various leadership roles. She serves on the IVH faculty board at UCPH Health since 2023 and has held significant positions with The Danish Veterinary Association, including Board member and chair of "Faggruppe Biomedicin" since 2022. Her work extends to advising industry stakeholders and participating in professional networks to translate research findings into practical applications for the Danish poultry sector.

Her research activities are centered at the University of Copenhagen's Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, where she collaborates with colleagues on poultry health and welfare projects. She participates in the NSVP Production Animal Pathology Network and maintains active engagement with the poultry industry through presentations and collaborative research addressing real-world challenges in commercial egg production.