Ole Kiehn

Ole Kiehn is a distinguished Professor in Integrative Neuroscience at the Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, and Professor in Neuroscience at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden. His career spans over three decades with significant contributions to understanding the neural basis of movement. He leads the Kiehn Lab which focuses on the molecular, cellular, and network organization of locomotor circuits in mammals.

Education:

• 2002: Docent, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
• 1990: Doctor of Science from University of Copenhagen, Denmark
• 1985: M.D. from University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Kiehn's research centers on cellular and systems neurophysiology applied to the motor system, with particular focus on elucidating the networks underlying locomotion in rodents. His work bridges the gap between neuronal circuit organization and behavior, investigating how spinal locomotor circuits are activated and controlled by descending command signals. Recent work has focused on the functional organization of key neuronal elements for limbed locomotion in mammals: rhythm generation, coordination of flexors and extensors, and left/right coordination. His research has strong translational potential for developing therapies for movement disorders caused by trauma or disease.

Analysis of Kiehn's recent publications reveals consistent focus on the neural circuitry controlling locomotion. His work spans multiple levels of analysis from molecular and cellular mechanisms to systems-level organization of motor circuits. A significant theme is the modular organization of locomotor networks, with studies examining specific neuronal populations that control different aspects of movement. His research increasingly integrates advanced techniques like optogenetics, chemogenetics, and transcriptomics to dissect the complex neural circuits underlying movement.

Scientific Awards:

• 2024: Novo Nordic Foundation's Laureate program award
• 2022: The Brain Prize
• 2021: Kirsten and Freddy Johansen's preclinical prize
• 2019: Lundbeck Foundation's Professorship award
• 2017: Novo Nordic Foundation's Laureate program award
• 2015: European Research Council Advanced Grant
• 2014: Member of the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO)
• 2012: Member of The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

Kiehn has supervised over 10 PhD students and more than 25 postdocs throughout his career. His research has been supported by numerous prestigious grants including multiple European Research Council Advanced Grants, Novo Nordisk Foundation Laureate grants, and Lundbeck Foundation Professorship grants. He has served in leadership roles including as Vice Chair of Research at the Department of Neuroscience, UCPH, and as President Elect for the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS).

The Kiehn Lab, located at the University of Copenhagen, is a leading center for research on locomotor circuitry. The lab employs a broad experimental repertoire including production of transgenic mouse lines, genetically driven tracing, mRNA sequencing, in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and advanced behavioral analyses. Current research focuses on understanding the molecular, cellular, and network diversification of locomotor circuitries in mammals, with applications to movement disorders and spinal cord injury.