Ken Steen Pedersen

Ken Steen Pedersen serves as Professor of Porcine Health Management within the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. Holding dual doctoral qualifications (Dr. Med. Vet. and Ph.D.) alongside Diplomate status in the European College of Porcine Health Management, he leads the Porcine Health Management Research Group while maintaining clinical specialist credentials (Specialdyrlæge). His work bridges academic research and practical swine production systems across Europe.

Professor Pedersen's research centers on critical challenges in modern pig farming, with particular emphasis on infectious disease diagnostics (especially neonatal omphalitis), antimicrobial resistance mitigation, and welfare assessment protocols. His laboratory employs histopathological analysis, biomarker quantification, and international survey methodologies to address issues like umbilical infections, lameness in gestating sows, and iron therapy optimization. Recent work demonstrates strong focus on evidence-based treatment protocols that balance therapeutic efficacy with responsible antibiotic use.

Analysis of his 2024-2025 publications reveals consistent investigation of physiological responses to disease and treatment across multiple production stages. His team combines clinical field studies with laboratory validation, particularly examining acute phase proteins as welfare indicators and comparing flock-level versus individual treatment approaches for common swine conditions. This integrated methodology supports practical implementation in commercial settings while advancing scientific understanding of porcine pathophysiology.

Key recognition includes:

• Diplomate of the European College of Porcine Health Management (ECPHM)

As research group leader, Pedersen directs collaborative projects involving histopathology, biomarker validation, and international welfare surveys. His team maintains active engagement with industry through the 'Seminar om God Antibiotikapraksis' (Good Antibiotic Practice Seminar) and media contributions addressing real-world production challenges like mass diarrhea outbreaks. Current work focuses on diagnostic standardization for neonatal conditions and optimizing antimicrobial stewardship in swine operations.