Jens Peter Nielsen

Jens Peter Nielsen is a Professor of Pig Health and Deputy Head of the Division for Production and Health at the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. His academic career spans over three decades with significant contributions to swine medicine and health management. He maintains dual professorships in Production, Nutrition and Health as well as Animal Welfare and Disease Control.

His educational background includes DVM and Ph.D. qualifications with Diplomate status from the European College of Porcine Health Management (ECPHM). His research focuses on practical applications of veterinary science in pig production systems, with particular expertise in herd health management and disease control.

Nielsen's research interests include respiratory infections, herd diagnosis of enteric infections, porcine zoonotic infections, post-weaning diarrhea, gastric ulcers in sows, iron supplementation and hematology, urinary infections in sows, tail biting, acute phase proteins, and objective health measurement. His work bridges population medicine with practical applications in pig farming, often conducted in collaboration with veterinary practitioners and the pig industry.

His publication record includes over 300 research outputs with recent work focusing on antibiotic resistance, piglet health issues including omphalitis, and risk-based approaches to food safety. His research demonstrates a consistent focus on translating scientific findings into practical herd management solutions that address health, welfare, production, and food safety concerns.

• President of the European College of Porcine Health Management (2004-2007)
• Director of the Residence programme in Porcine Health Management at LIFE
• Chairman of the permanent expert committee on Classical and African Swine fever
• Chairman of multiple International Pig Veterinary Society Congresses (1986-2004)

Nielsen actively supervises 5-10 bachelor's and master's students annually and has contributed significantly to veterinary education through specialized pig courses and practical herd health management training. His international collaborations include veterinary specialist work in Lithuania, Vietnam, and Ghana, demonstrating global recognition of his expertise in swine health management.