Ole Pedersen

Ole Pedersen is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Science, specializing in Freshwater Biology. He maintains active research and teaching positions with significant international collaborations.

• PhD in Aquatic Ecology from University of Copenhagen (awarded May 24, 1995)
• Current research focuses on water and gas transport in submerged plants

Professor Pedersen's research interests center on flood, drought and salinity tolerance in crops and natural wetland plants. His work explores internal aeration during submergence, underwater photosynthesis and respiration, ecophysiology of isoetids (Lobelia, Littorella and Isoetes), brownification of softwater lakes, seagrass ecology, and plant-sediment interactions. His laboratory employs advanced techniques including X-ray tomography and microsensor technology to study plant responses to environmental stresses.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on rice flood tolerance mechanisms, with particular attention to root barrier formation, leaf gas films, and anatomical adaptations to waterlogging. The research spans from fundamental plant physiology to applied agricultural solutions for climate change adaptation.

• Editor of Functional Plant Biology Journal (2017-2017)
• Member of Board of Directors at Unisense A/S (2014-2027)
• Referee for 50+ international journals

Professor Pedersen actively mentors numerous students and collaborates internationally, with recent visiting positions at Nagoya University, University of Western Australia, Sokoine University of Agriculture, and University of Hamburg. He has developed significant expertise in microelectrode technology through his involvement with Unisense A/S, a company specializing in microelectrodes and measuring systems for biological applications. His teaching includes general ecology, diversity of organisms, field courses in limnology, and freshwater ecology.