Peter Sandøe

Peter Sandøe is a Professor of Bioethics holding dual appointments at the University of Copenhagen, with 50% employment at the Department of Food and Resource Economics (Section for Consumption, Bioethics and Governance) and 50% at the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (Animal Welfare and Disease Control). Since 2005, he has served as Head of the Section of Consumption, Health and Ethics, and since 2020 has directed the Danish Centre for the Study of Companion Animal Welfare.

His research focuses on bioethics with particular emphasis on ethical issues related to animals, biotechnology, and food production, employing interdisciplinary approaches that integrate natural science, social science, and philosophical perspectives. His work spans animal welfare science, genetic modification ethics, risk assessment in biotechnology, and consumer behavior related to ethical food choices.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals consistent focus on companion animal welfare (particularly dogs and cats), methodological approaches to animal welfare assessment, ethical breeding practices, and emerging ethical challenges in veterinary medicine including cannabinoid treatments. His work demonstrates strong international collaboration across European research networks.

• UFAW Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Animal Welfare Science (2013)

Sandøe has coordinated 25 externally funded research projects and served as PI in 25 additional projects. He maintains active roles in research governance, including membership since 2007 (and vice-chair since 2011) on the University of Copenhagen's Committee for Good Scientific Practice. His external engagements include chairing advisory boards for major initiatives like Welfare Quality (2004-2009) and serving on Harvest Plus advisory committee (2004-2010).

He directs the Danish Centre for the Study of Companion Animal Welfare and co-developed educational tools including Animal Ethics Dilemma (www.aedilemma.net). His research network shows extensive collaboration with European institutions, animal welfare NGOs, and industry partners in the agricultural sector, always operating through his university role without personal remuneration from external partners.