Ole Kiehn

Ole Kiehn is a Professor in Integrative Neuroscience at the Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark, and concurrently serves as Professor in Neuroscience at the Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Sweden. His research focuses on understanding the neuronal networks that produce movements, which are the origin of all behaviors.

Education:

• MD from University of Copenhagen, Denmark (1985)
• D.Sci from University of Copenhagen, Denmark (1990)
• Docent, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (2002)

Kiehn's research centers on the molecular, cellular, and network diversification of locomotor circuitries in mammals. His lab applies advanced physiological and molecular genetic approaches including optogenetics, RNA-seq, molecular tracing, advanced imaging, and electrophysiology to study spinal and brainstem circuits. They have deciphered the functional organization of spinal circuitries for locomotion timing and coordination, and delineated brainstem circuits involved in gating or context-dependent selection of motor behaviors. Current research also investigates plasticity in spinal networks following spinal cord injury and the role of spinal interneurons in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Analysis of Kiehn's recent publications reveals a strong focus on neural circuit mechanisms underlying locomotion and behavior. His work spans multiple levels from molecular and cellular mechanisms to network organization and behavioral outcomes. Key themes include spinal cord circuitry, brainstem control of movement, neuromodulation, neurodegeneration in ALS, and the integration of different brain regions for coordinated motor behavior. The research demonstrates significant translational potential for developing therapies for movement disorders caused by trauma or disease.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• Lundbeck Foundation's Professorship award (2019-)
• Novo Nordic Foundation Laureate program (2017-)
• European Research Council advanced grant (2016-, second award)
• Member of EMBO (2014)
• Member of Academia Europea (2013)
• Member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (2012)
• Member of The Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters (2010)
• Torsten and Ragnar Söderberg's Professorship (2011-2016)
• European Research Council advanced grant (2011-2016)
• 5 Year Distinguished Professor Award from Karolinska Institute (2010-2015)
• Schellenberg Prize in spinal cord research (2004)

Kiehn has supervised more than 10 PhD students and 25 postdocs throughout his career, hosting guest professors from institutions including Cornell University, Salk Institute, Oslo University, and William and Mary. His lab has secured substantial funding including Lundbeck Foundation's Professorship Grant (32 MDKK, 2020-2026), Novo Nordic Foundation Laureate Program (40 MDKK, 2017-2023), and multiple European Research Council advanced grants. He has served as PI for major collaborative projects including an NIH R01 grant with researchers from Drexel University and Salk Institute.

Kiehn leads a research group focused on integrative neuroscience with expertise in advanced physiological and molecular genetic approaches. His lab bridges the gap between neuronal circuit organization and behavior, with strong translational potential for developing therapies for movement disorders. He also serves as Co-editor in chief of Current Opinion in Neurobiology and has held significant leadership roles including Vice Chair of the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine (2016) and member of the Nobel Committee (2014-2019).