Rasmus Mølgaard Mariager

Rasmus Mølgaard Mariager (born 1971) is a Professor of Contemporary History at the SAXO-Institute within the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Copenhagen. His academic career spans over two decades with significant contributions to Danish and European contemporary history, particularly focusing on Cold War studies and transatlantic relations. He has held various academic positions at the University of Copenhagen and previously at the University of Southern Denmark.

Education:

• Dr.phil. in History, University of Copenhagen (2017)
• Ph.D. in History, University of Copenhagen (2003)
• Cand.mag. in History and Philosophy, University of Copenhagen (1997)
• History studies at University of Thessaloniki, Greece (1994)

Mariager's research interests center on post-1945 Danish history, Northern European contemporary history, the Cold War, transatlantic relations, and the American world order. His scholarly work demonstrates a consistent focus on how Denmark navigated its position between superpowers during the Cold War and in subsequent military engagements. He has written 10 books and edited approximately 20 volumes on these topics, establishing himself as a leading authority on Danish Cold War history.

Research Trends: Mariager's recent publications reveal a pattern of examining Denmark's military engagements in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq through historical and political lenses. His work frequently analyzes the interplay between domestic politics and international decision-making, particularly regarding Denmark's transition from a semi-neutral position to a more active NATO ally. His 2024 book 'Sjælekampen: Danskernes kolde krig' represents a comprehensive examination of Denmark's Cold War experience.

Scientific Recognition:

• Elected to the Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters (2023)
• Elected to the Royal Danish Society for National History (2014)
• Elected to the Society for Publication of Sources to Danish History (2010)
• Editor-in-Chief of the Scandinavian Journal of History (2009-2018)

Mariager has served as research leader for the independent investigation into Denmark's military engagements in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq (2016-2019). He currently serves as Co-PI for the FKK-FSE-funded collective research project 'Mind the Gap. Security Scholarship between Academia and Policy, 1978-2024' (2023-2027). His grant history includes leadership of significant research projects examining Denmark's military history and security policy.

Research Networks: Mariager has been actively involved in several research networks including NORCENCOWAR (Nordic Network of Cold War Researchers, 2008-2012) and the European Détente Research Network (2008-2009). He initiated and co-edited 'The Cold War and Denmark. Gads Encyclopedia' with participation from 70 researchers, demonstrating his ability to coordinate large-scale collaborative research efforts.