Mikael B. Skov is a Vice Dean and Professor at the Technical Faculty of IT and Design of Aalborg University , Denmark. His research spans human-AI interaction, robotics, and user experience, with a focus on trust signaling in clinical AI, swarm robotics, and sound zones for domestic environments. Role: Vice Dean for Research Department: Computer Science Research Interests: Skov investigates how humans interact with AI and robots in healthcare and domestic settings, emphasizing trust calibration, alert design, and acoustic comfort. His work includes developing frameworks for UX maturity in robotics organizations and studying long-term adoption of sound zone systems. Recent Projects: As principal/co-investigator, he leads the HERD project on human-AI collaboration in robot swarms (2021–2025) and supervises Data og Bæredygtig Mad (2020–2023), an HCI perspective on sustainable food systems. Publications: His 2024 work includes studies on AI explanations in clinical training, music applications with intermittent interactions, and multi-robot supervision. Earlier projects (2001–2020) focused on mobile device usability, UX practices, and context-aware computing.
Dorte Hammershøi is a Professor in the Department of Electronic Systems at The Technical Faculty of IT and Design, Aalborg University, Denmark. Her research focuses on acoustics, sound engineering, and hearing science with significant contributions to human hearing, ear canal acoustics, and audio technology applications. Her research interests include: Temporary Threshold Shift and frequency resolution in human hearing Ear canal acoustics and sound pressure level measurement Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission (DPOAE) analysis Impulse response and acoustic impedance studies Hearing aid technology and rehabilitation methodologies Virtual reality audio interfaces and accessibility applications Professor Hammershøi's recent publications demonstrate a strong clinical-engineering interdisciplinary approach, bridging theoretical acoustics with practical hearing rehabilitation applications. Her work on hearing aid fitting methodologies, occupational noise exposure effects, and virtual reality audio interfaces shows consistent innovation in translating engineering principles to clinical practice. The research shows particular attention to individualized hearing solutions and accessibility technologies. Her scientific contributions have been recognized with: Dansk Lydpris 2020 (awarded November 17, 2021) Ambassadør for Aalborg (awarded September 15, 2004) Professor Hammershøi has supervised 5 PhD students and led numerous research projects including the ongoing "Audio Only VR for Blind Gamers" project (2024-2028) funded by the Independent Research Foundation of Denmark, and the completed "BEAR: Better Hearing Rehabilitation" project (2016-2022). Her research has attracted significant media attention with 110 press/media appearances discussing hearing damage prevention, tinnitus, and public health implications of noise exposure. She maintains active professional engagement through committee memberships (46 documented activities), international collaborations, and contributions to clinical practice guidelines. Her work continues to influence both academic research and practical applications in hearing science and audio engineering.
Thomas Bjørner is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University's Department of Architecture, Design and Media Technology within The Technical Faculty of IT and Design. He serves as Head of the Media Innovation & Game Research (Me-Ga) unit and co-founded the research network for qualitative methods (since 2007) with 40+ company collaborations. Specializes in qualitative/mixed methods for technology evaluation Teaches PhD courses in advanced qualitative methods EU expert evaluator for research grants His research focuses on gamified learning , VR for social communication , and technology acceptance studies , often addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals. Recent projects include: Audio-only VR for blind gamers Generative AI integration in education Plastic crisis awareness games Smart city implementation barriers Scientific Awards: Serious Game Competition Award (2022) International conference prizes (2020, 2018) With over 121 publications including two textbooks, his work emphasizes applied qualitative methods with improved validity in technology contexts, particularly for youth education and media research.
Ali Adjorlu is an Assistant Professor at Aalborg University's Department of Architecture, Design and Media Technology. His research focuses on innovative applications of Virtual Reality (VR) to support marginalized populations, particularly children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), hearing impairments, and social anxiety. He leads the Multisensory Experience Laboratory and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects such as the GAMESS initiative, which develops game-based learning tools for social skills training in ASD education. His work bridges technology, education, and healthcare, emphasizing accessibility and user-centric design. Key collaborations include: Co-supervision of the Haptic Feedback for Hearing Impaired PhD project (2022–2025) Leadership in the GAMESS project (2022–2024), addressing ASD social skills through gamified VR Partnerships with Cirkus Summarum and Danish National Children’s Choir for inclusive VR applications Research interests include: VR interventions for ASD life skill training (e.g., public transportation, communication) Music therapy in immersive environments Hearing conservation and auditory training for cochlear implant users Accessibility frameworks for neurodiverse and disabled populations His publications highlight VR's potential in education, healthcare, and social inclusion, with notable contributions to conferences like IEEE VR and SMC. He actively engages with public media to disseminate research outcomes, appearing in articles about VR therapy for autism and hearing impairment interventions. Adjorlu’s work also explores: VR-based empathy training for parents of hearing-impaired children Collaborative music interfaces for ALS patients Remote UX evaluation methodologies for assistive technologies His research has led to practical tools like Earnormous (a hearing health VR game) and DecibelDefender (concert safety training), demonstrating real-world impact. He emphasizes iterative design processes involving end-users to ensure interventions are both effective and accessible.
Nicolai Jørgensgaard Graakjær is a Professor in Music and Sound in Marketing Communication at the Department of Communication and Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Aalborg University, Denmark. He leads the Mediated Communication section and was previously head of the MÆRKK research group (2010–2022). His work spans musicology, sound studies, social psychology, and media/communication science, focusing on how sound shapes human thought, emotion, and behavior in commercial and social contexts. His research interests include: Music and sound in advertising and retail Sonic branding of products and services (e.g., cars, food) Sound in sports environments (football stadiums, athletic events) Multimodal emergence and audience perception Environmental sound design and sustainability perception Collective identity formation through sonic experiences The most recent publications (2023–2026) reflect a strong trend in the psychological and cultural impact of sound in marketing and media. Themes include electric vehicle sound design, sonic logos, urban soundmarking, and the role of music in televised sports. These works span disciplines such as environmental psychology, branding, media studies, and sociolinguistics, demonstrating a consistent interdisciplinary approach. The sub-fields emphasize sensory marketing, auditory perception, emotional resonance, and multimodal integration. Nicolai Graakjær has no listed scientific awards in the provided text. He has supervised at least one PhD student and is actively involved in research grants and projects, including: Sound Branding – A literature review (2012–2019) Lydbranding (2011–2019) Innovationsnetværket for Market, Communication and Consumption (2011–2013) Æstetik i markedskommunikation (2010–2019) Undersøgelse af multimodal emergens (2010–2019) These projects were supported by research councils and industry collaborations, focusing on aesthetic meaning-making, sensory branding, and audience experimentation. He is associated with the MÆRKK research group and the Mediated Communication section at Aalborg University, where he contributes to interdisciplinary research on sound, media, and human behavior. His activities include organizing and participating in conferences, peer reviewing manuscripts, serving on editorial boards, and engaging in public discourse through press and media appearances.
Kasper Hornbæk is a Professor at the Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, specializing in Human-Centred Computing. He conducts research in human-computer interaction (HCI), usability, eye tracking, visualization, and software engineering. Primary Fields: Human-Computer Interaction, Usability Research, Eye Tracking, Visualization, Software Engineering Recent Collaborations: International (country/territory-level) partnerships in HCI and AI Research Outputs: 228 publications focusing on multimodal interaction, VR, and causal modeling His work explores audio-tactile integration, theoretical frameworks in HCI, and principles for user interface design through empirical studies and meta-analyses. Recent projects include heartbeat resonance interfaces and critiques of experimental methodology. Contact: kash@di.ku.dk | Research Website
Birgitte Stougaard Pedersen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Aesthetics and Culture at the School of Communication and Culture, Aarhus University. She is actively engaged in research, leadership, and public scholarship, currently serving as Head of the Research Program 'Arts, Aesthetics, Communities' and Head of the Center for Literature Between Media. Her work bridges literature, sound, digital culture, and phenomenology. Her research interests include: Sound and aesthetic experience Digital audiobooks and voice Multisensory reading practices Phenomenological literary analysis Poetry slam and performance Media studies and medialization Recent publications reflect a strong trend in exploring how digital technologies transform reading and listening, particularly in children’s education. Her work integrates theoretical depth with empirical studies, often in collaborative, interdisciplinary settings. Themes such as rhythm, resonance, voice, and embodiment recur across her scholarship, showing a consistent focus on the sensory and affective dimensions of literature and media. Scientific recognition includes: AIAS Carlsberg Monograph Fellow (2025–2026) She has served as Principal Investigator on major projects like 'Reading Between Media,' funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, and has advised student bachelor projects. Her editorial roles include contributions to Resonance: Journal of Sound and Culture and Barnbogen . She is also active in public engagement through press and media contributions. She is involved in several research groups and networks, including 'Lydgruppen' and international collaborations with VIA University College and Malmö University, reflecting a strong commitment to interdisciplinary and cross-institutional research.
Qian Wang is an Associate Professor at the University of Copenhagen's Department of Food Science. Previously, he was a tenure-track assistant professor at Aarhus University (2018-2023) and held postdoctoral and research positions at the University of Oxford and MIT. Wang earned his PhD in Experimental Psychology from Oxford, MSc from MIT's Media Lab, and BSc in Computer Science from Caltech. His interdisciplinary research examines how taste, smell, and multisensory interactions influence food perception and consumer behavior. Key focus areas include: Crossmodal sensory interactions (audio-visual-tactile influences on flavor) Digital interventions for sustainable food choices VR/AR applications in eating contexts Machine learning models of sensory perception Plant-based food acceptance strategies Wang's recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate strong focus on sustainable food systems, sensory perception mechanisms, digital tool applications, and cross-cultural consumer studies. Article keywords frequently include sensory evaluation, consumer behavior, sustainability, and technological innovation. Awards include: Nils Foss Talent Prize (2019) Wang leads interdisciplinary projects funded by international agencies and collaborates with academic, industry, and cultural partners to translate research into practical dietary interventions.
Morten Breinbjerg serves as Associate Professor at the Department of Digital Design and Information Studies within Aarhus University's School of Communication and Culture. His academic work bridges sound studies, digital design, and urban informatics with a focus on public space dynamics and sonic citizenship. His research centers on the ecological and political dimensions of sound in urban environments. He investigates how sonic practices shape citizenship through messy and fragile negotiations in public spaces, examining media architecture aesthetics, participatory sound art, and dynamic sound atmospheres. His methodological approach emphasizes ecological frameworks for understanding sound's role in civic engagement, combining fieldwork with theoretical analysis of sound's political potential. Analysis of his publication trends reveals consistent interdisciplinary work spanning sound studies, urban sociology, and digital design. Recent outputs focus on pandemic-era soundscapes and sonic citizenship frameworks, while earlier work established foundations in media architecture participation and ecological sound methods. His research demonstrates longitudinal commitment to understanding sound as a civic medium across evolving technological and social contexts. Breinbjerg has secured significant research funding through major projects including Sonic Citizenship (2021-present), Objects humans and the Rift (2014-2016), PIT: Participatory IT Center (2012-2017), Ekkomaten (2012-2014), Atmosphere (2009), DUL: Digital Urban Living (2008-2012), and Interface Aesthetics projects (2004-2007). These initiatives involved cross-institutional collaborations examining digital-physical urban interactions. He contributes to research collectives focused on sonic citizenship methodologies and media architecture evaluation, developing ecological approaches for sound art in public spaces and advancing theoretical frameworks for understanding sound's role in contemporary civic life.
Iben Bredahl Jessen is an Associate Professor at Aalborg University's Department of Communication and Psychology, within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. Her research focuses on media aesthetics in market communication, emphasizing cultural meanings, authenticity, and branding strategies across historical and contemporary contexts. She leads the Aesthetics, Culture and Media research group and has contributed to projects like the Environmental Humanities Cluster . Her teaching spans bachelor’s and master’s programs in Communication and Digital Media, with roles in course coordination and program development. Her research integrates multimodal analysis, examining how media aesthetics shape consumer perceptions, particularly in food and beverage branding. Recent work explores sustainability in marketing and digital media's role in cultural narratives. She has published extensively on topics like mobile technology representation, logo design, and the intersection of photography and advertising in digital spaces. Jessen actively participates in academic networks and conferences, contributing to discussions on media history and sustainable development. She has organized events such as the FoodKom Symposium and is a member of the European Communication Research and Education Association.
Marie Gorm Aabo is a PhD Fellow at the Copenhagen Center for Health Research in the Humanities (CoRe) within the SAXO-Institute of the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Humanities. Her research integrates ethnological methods with health humanities to explore tinnitus, sensory environments, and aging processes. She holds a Master's degree in European Ethnology and serves as an external lecturer for undergraduate courses in Ethnological Communication. Her primary research areas include: Sensory ethnography of hearing disorders Disability studies in workplace contexts Senior life transitions and retirement Mental health in late-career phases Cultural analysis of food and communication Recent publications reveal a strong interdisciplinary trajectory connecting sound studies with medical humanities. Her work demonstrates innovative methodological approaches through sensory experiments and podcast-based dissemination, with particular emphasis on how tinnitus reshapes everyday sound environments and bodily perception. Collaborative projects with Danish municipalities and industries form the empirical foundation for her research on senior worker transitions. As an educator, she has developed and taught the Ethnological Communication course at BA level, incorporating guest lectures, student supervision, and curriculum design. Her professional background includes research assistance for municipal senior transition projects, podcast production (including the 35,000+ listen 'Heart Ache' grief podcast), and consultancy work applying ethnographic methods to organizational development. She actively contributes to academic communities through the Ethnological Forum steering group and co-founding KULT - a network for recent ethnology and anthropology graduates. Her current PhD project develops sensory methodologies to investigate tinnitus's impact on quality of life, drawing from humanistic health studies, disability frameworks, and sound research traditions.
Razvan Paisa is an Assistant Lecturer at Aalborg University's Department of Architecture, Design and Media Technology, associated with the Multisensory Experience Laboratory. His research focuses on vibrotactile augmentation for hearing-impaired users, assistive technologies, and immersive virtual reality applications. He leads the project 'Vibrotactile augmentation of music for cochlear implant users' and collaborates on the Nordic Sound and Music Computing Network. PhD in 2024: 'The Musical Touch: Exploring Vibrotactile Augmentation of Music for Cochlear Implant Users' His work integrates multisensory design, haptic feedback systems, and music technology to enhance accessibility. Key research areas include cochlear implant user experiences, tactile feedback algorithms, and collaborative virtual reality rehabilitation tools. Recent publications explore tactile-auditory integration for music perception and real-time cochlear implant simulators. His projects emphasize user-centered design for healthcare and cultural participation. Grants: PI of a 2021-2024 research project Labs: Multisensory Experience Laboratory
Axel Ahrens is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Technology at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), specializing in Hearing Systems. His research focuses on audiovisual perception, virtual reality environments, and speech perception in complex acoustic scenes. He holds a PhD in audiology from DTU, completed between 2014 and 2019, under the supervision of Professor Torsten Dau. Key research areas include: Audio-visual scene analysis in virtual reality Spatial audio and sound localization Effects of noise on decision-making in group interactions Speech perception in multitalker environments Human behavior in reverberant acoustic settings Applications of beamformer technology in hearing aids Recent work emphasizes the interplay between auditory and visual cues in complex environments, with notable studies on how noise impacts triadic conversations and decision-making outcomes. He currently supervises PhD students in projects like 'Speech Intelligibility in Realistic Listening Environments' (2024-2027) and 'Interpersonal Temporal Dynamics of Group Interaction' (2023-2026). Ahrens actively contributes to academic activities, including peer reviewing for journals like Hearing Research and Journal of the Acoustical Society of America , and organizing workshops on communication dynamics. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation. Labs/Teams: Hearing Systems Section at DTU Health Tech.
Christian Sejer Pedersen is an Associate Professor at the Department of Electronic Systems, Aalborg University, within The Technical Faculty of IT and Design. His research focuses on acoustics, signal processing, and low-frequency noise, particularly in environmental and engineering contexts. He has contributed to studies on wind turbine noise, wireless sound zones, and psychoacoustic phenomena. Key research areas include low-frequency sound zones, packet loss concealment in wireless audio systems, and noise measurement technologies. His work integrates theoretical models with practical applications, addressing both technical and regulatory challenges in noise control. Pedersen has been involved in 12 major projects, including ISOBEL: Interactive Sound Zones for Better Living and initiatives on noise assessment methodologies. His publications span 20+ years, with recent emphases on robust sound zone filters, AR models for latency reduction, and free-field correction techniques. Media engagements highlight his expertise in public debates about noise from infrastructure projects like wind turbines and urban developments. Advising and grants involve multidisciplinary collaborations, focusing on sustainable energy systems and acoustic engineering innovations. His lab work centers on advanced audio systems and environmental noise mitigation strategies. Pedersen's contributions bridge academic research with real-world applications in acoustics and signal processing.
Morten Roed Frederiksen serves as an Assistant Professor in the Data, Systems, and Robotics department at IT University of Copenhagen, where he leads research at the intersection of robotics and human-centered applications. His work focuses on developing socially assistive robots with particular emphasis on therapeutic applications for children. Position: Assistant Professor Institution: IT University of Copenhagen Department: Data, Systems, and Robotics Research Focus: Socially assistive robotics Dr. Frederiksen's research centers on human-robot interaction with specialization in affective robotics and context-aware systems. His work explores how robots can understand physical context and adapt behaviors accordingly, particularly focusing on emotional engagement strategies and anxiety reduction in children. The research combines reinforcement learning techniques with context comprehension to create more effective socially assistive robots that can respond appropriately to human emotional states and environmental conditions. Analysis of his publication trends reveals a strong focus on therapeutic applications of pocket-sized robots for children with anxiety disorders. His recent work (2023-2025) demonstrates increasing sophistication in context-guided behavior adaptation frameworks, with particular attention to tactile comfort mechanisms and emotional expressiveness. The research trajectory shows progression from foundational context recognition (2019-2021) to applied therapeutic implementations (2022-2025), with growing emphasis on physiological response measurement and age-specific engagement strategies. Dr. Frederiksen has secured significant research funding through multiple competitive grants: DEEP Project (2022-2024): Funded by Danmarks Frie Forskningsfond, focusing on deep neural network based physical response prediction AffectaPocket (2025-2026): Funded by Innovation Fund Denmark, developing anxiety-reducing pocket robots for children University of Southern California Research Stay (2019-2020): Funded by Stibo-Fonden His research has received media attention, including coverage in Danish media regarding the potential of social robots to help children with anxiety. The work has been referenced across multiple academic platforms including Mendeley and social media, indicating growing impact in both academic and public spheres.
