Tim Holm Jakobsen

Tim Holm Jakobsen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Immunology and Microbiology at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences (SUND). His research focuses on the interaction between pathogenic bacteria and their host, with particular emphasis on bacterial biofilms in chronic infections. Dr. Jakobsen integrates clinical sample studies with laboratory models to develop insights that enhance diagnostic and treatment strategies for bacterial infections.

Dr. Jakobsen earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Copenhagen in 2013, following a Cand. Scient. in biology from Roskilde University in 2007. His academic career progressed from Scientific Assistant positions at UCPH and DTU (2007-2010), through postdoctoral work at Rigshospitalet and UCPH (2014-2016), to Assistant Professor (2016-2021), and finally Associate Professor (2021-present).

His research interests center on bacterial biofilm formation in chronic wound infections, host-pathogen interactions, and the development of novel strategies to combat biofilm-related infections. Dr. Jakobsen's work spans from basic research on bacterial signaling systems (Quorum Sensing and cyclic-di-GMP) to translational applications, including the validation of substances for inhibiting pathogenic bacteria. His research has led to patent development and commercial applications, with Dr. Jakobsen serving as scientific advisor in these ventures.

Dr. Jakobsen's publications reveal a strong focus on chronic wound infections, bacterial biofilms, and antimicrobial strategies. His recent work has advanced methodologies for studying biofilms in clinical samples, developed novel anti-biofilm compounds, and improved diagnostic approaches for bacterial infections. His research bridges fundamental microbiology with clinical applications, addressing critical challenges in infection treatment.

• Best paper award, AAC journal, American Society for Microbiology (2024)
• Article selected as the Highly Cited Paper of Microorganisms (2022)
• Finalist, PhD of the year competition, SUND-UCPH (2014)
• Student travel grant awards (2011, 2012)

Dr. Jakobsen has supervised 5 PhD, 9 MSc, 5 BSc, and 2 MD students, demonstrating his commitment to academic mentorship. He has secured significant research funding, including a DKK 4.6 million grant from the European Defense Fund (2025), DKK 500,000 from the National Defense Technological Center (2024), and multiple other grants totaling over DKK 2 million. As Principal Investigator, he leads projects focused on new biomarkers of infection, battlefield wound microbiome mapping, chronic wound microbiome understanding, and diagnosis of sterile site infections.

Dr. Jakobsen serves on the Education Committee and Academic Board at ISIM-UCPH (2024), chairs PhD assessor committees, and acts as National Editor for the APMIS Journal. His research group collaborates with clinical partners to translate laboratory findings into improved patient care for chronic wound infections.