معرفی
Mikael Forsman serves as Professor and Head of the Division of Ergonomics at KTH Royal Institute of Technology's School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health (CBH). With a PhD in Medical Electronics from Chalmers University (1995), he has specialized in ergonomics research since 1994, developing both advanced research methods and practical tools for practitioners. His work spans laboratory experiments, field studies, and participative interventions at individual and organizational levels.
- M.Sc. (E. Eng.) from Chalmers University of Technology, Göteborg (1987)
- Ph.D. in Medical Electronics from Chalmers University of Technology (1995)
- Docent of Ergonomics, Department of Human Factors Engineering (1999)
Forsman's research centers on reliable measurement methods for ergonomic risk assessment and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. Key areas include:
- Development of inexpensive, user-friendly systems using microelectronics for biomechanical exposure measurement
- Field studies of physical and psychosocial exposures across various occupations
- Creation of questionnaires and investigation of correlations between work ability, musculoskeletal pain, and workload
- Work accident prevention and analysis
- Participative ergonomic interventions at multiple organizational levels
Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals three dominant research trends: (1) Development and validation of wearable sensor technologies for real-time ergonomic assessment; (2) Application of ergonomic principles in specialized fields like surgery, construction, and waste management; (3) Integration of human factors with digital technologies such as BIM. His work consistently bridges theoretical biomechanics with practical workplace solutions, emphasizing accessible methods for practitioners.
Forsman has supervised approximately 20 master's theses and served as main supervisor for 3 doctoral theses with 8 additional co-supervised theses. Currently, he supervises 3 PhD students as main supervisor and 4 others as co-supervisor. He has led approximately 12 research projects and participated as co-applicant in about 20 projects funded by research councils. His educational contributions include responsibility for numerous master's level courses in ergonomics and work environment.
As leader of KTH's Division of Ergonomics, Forsman directs research on biomechanical exposure measurement and practical ergonomic interventions. He actively promotes Nordic collaboration in ergonomics research, noting similarities in work life and research traditions across the region. Current projects include the Smart Workwear Consortium developing systems with real-time vibrotactile feedback for reducing postural exposure in industrial settings, and research on leadership aspects associated with digital technology adoption in construction.
