Professor David E. Gloriam is a leading expert in G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) at the University of Copenhagen , Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology. Recognized as a top 1% Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher, he leads GPCRdb, a major database with >50,000 annual users, and develops computational tools like GPCRgraphs for drug discovery. His innovation roles include Senior Scientific Expert at Kvantify A/S and applications in pharmaceutical industry tools with patent citations. Education: Ph.D. in Medicine (Uppsala University, 2006), M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Uppsala University, 2003) Leadership: Head of GPCRdb (2014–), EU COST Actions member (2014–17), and institutional leadership roles in Pharmaceutical Data Science unit and Research Leadership Forum Research Interests: His work spans computational modeling of GPCR dynamics, virtual screening methods for inaccessible receptors, pharmacogenomics (PGxDB platform), and biased signaling for safer drugs. He integrates structural biology, data science, and bioinformatics to advance pharmaceutical discovery. Awards: Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (2022) IUPHAR Analytical Pharmacology Award (2023) Lars Arge Prize for Big Data (2021) UCPH Forward Talent Program (2019) ERC Starting Grant (2014) Teaching & Supervision: Teaches Molecular Pharmacology and AI in Drug Discovery , and supervises 3 current PhD students. He has mentored 13 PhDs and 14 Postdocs, with former members attaining tenured academic or industry roles.
Kasper Harpsøe is a Research Consultant and Data and Computing Facility Manager at the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. He has extensive expertise in computational medicinal chemistry with over 15 years of experience in molecular modeling techniques, particularly focused on G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs). Harpsøe earned his Ph.D. in Computational Chemistry from The Danish University of Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2006 with research on "Computational Studies on the Allosteric Modulation of AMPA Receptors." He holds a Master of Science in Pharmacy (Cand. Pharm.) from The Royal Danish School of Pharmacy completed in 2001. His international experience includes a three-month traineeship at Schrödinger Inc. in New York and research collaboration with the Carlson group at the University of Michigan. His research expertise spans structure-based design of peptide and small molecule ligands, binding site identification, docking and binding pose evaluation, protein-ligand interactions, conformational analysis, QSAR, sequence analysis, homology modeling, molecular dynamics, and quantum chemistry calculations. Harpsøe has made significant contributions to understanding GPCR structure-function relationships, ligand recognition mechanisms, and G protein coupling specificity. Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent focus on GPCR molecular pharmacology, with particular emphasis on serotonin receptors, orphan receptors like GPR139, and GABA receptors. His work integrates computational approaches with experimental validation to identify molecular determinants of receptor selectivity and to design novel ligands for therapeutic applications. The research bridges structural biology, molecular modeling, and medicinal chemistry in the context of drug discovery. Harpsøe currently manages the department's Data and Computing Facility, overseeing a GPU Linux cluster and providing computational support for research groups. Previously, from 2014 to 2021, he served as project manager for computational drug design activities within the Gloriam Group, working on multidisciplinary drug discovery projects in collaboration with medicinal chemists, molecular pharmacologists, structural biologists, and data scientists from both academia and industry.
Signe Mathiasen is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, where she leads the Mathiasen Group focused on Molecular and Translational Pharmacology. She previously held positions at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, including Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Mathiasen earned her BSc (2008), MSc (2011), and PhD (2013) in Nanoscience/Biophysics from the University of Copenhagen, with Professor Dimitrios Stamou as her advisor for both her MSc and PhD. Her research centers on adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), particularly ADGRL3 (latrophilin 3), which has been genetically associated with ADHD and substance abuse. Her lab combines molecular biology techniques, advanced GPCR signaling assays, and novel single molecule microscopy approaches to investigate how these receptors function in the nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiac and immune systems. They're particularly interested in how mechanical stress impacts ADGRL3 signaling in response to synaptic ligand interactions. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on adhesion GPCR structure and function, with emphasis on ADGRL3 signaling mechanisms, G protein coupling specificity, and the development of advanced imaging techniques like single-molecule FRET. Her work bridges molecular pharmacology with neuroscience, particularly in understanding dopamine signaling pathways relevant to neuropsychiatric disorders. Sapere Aude Research Leader (2022-2026), Independent Research Fund Denmark Inge Lehmann Grant (2022-2024), Independent Research Fund Denmark Grant to establish independence in Denmark (2020-2021) NIH Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (R21) (2016-2019) International Postdoc Fellowship (2015-2016), Lundbeck Foundation Postdoc travel grant (2014-2015), Carlsberg Foundation As Principal Investigator on multiple major grants, Dr. Mathiasen mentors several PhD students and postdocs in her lab. Her group utilizes live cell GPCR signaling assays (BRET, FRET), confocal microscopy, optical tweezers, and single molecule imaging techniques to study receptor function at unprecedented resolution. The Mathiasen Group operates within the Molecular and Translational Pharmacology section, with current members including PhD Fellows Jesper Holmkvist and Júlia Rosell Teixidó, Postdoc Mohammadreza Arastoo, and Laboratory Technician Rajesh Regmi. Their collaborative work spans multiple disciplines, connecting molecular pharmacology with neuroscience and translational medicine.
Trond Ulven is a Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen since January 2018. Previously, he served as Professor at the University of Southern Denmark from 2012-2018, holding positions with special responsibilities in entrepreneurship. He is also the Director and co-founder of Caldan Therapeutics since 2015, demonstrating his commitment to translational research. His educational background includes: Doctor engineer (dr.ing.) of Organic Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 1999 Civil engineer (siv.ing.) of Organic Chemistry, Norwegian Institute of Technology (NTH), 1994 Examen philosophicum, University of Trondheim, Norway, 1992 Professor Ulven's research focuses on medicinal chemistry and drug discovery, particularly targeting G protein-coupled 7-transmembrane receptors (GPCRs). His work emphasizes free fatty acid receptors, which show significant potential as drug targets for metabolic diseases. His research also extends to chemokine receptors and AMPK signaling within inflammation and metabolic disease contexts. His group develops synthetic methods to support structure-activity relationship studies and efficient compound identification, with continuous efforts to create simpler, more efficient, and greener synthetic approaches. His extensive publication record (162 research outputs) demonstrates consistent productivity and relevance in the field. The research trends show a deep focus on GPCR pharmacology, particularly free fatty acid receptors (FFAR1, FFAR2, FFAR4) and GPR84. His work spans molecular pharmacology, medicinal chemistry optimization, and translational studies examining metabolic effects in animal models, integrating biochemical, cellular, and in vivo approaches to understand receptor function and develop therapeutic compounds. Professor Ulven maintains an active research laboratory with significant industry connections through Caldan Therapeutics. His work has garnered attention across multiple platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Bluesky, and news outlets, indicating impact within both scientific and broader communities. His research has practical applications in metabolic disease therapeutics, with publications appearing in high-impact journals including Nature, Nature Communications, Science Advances, and Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.
Morten Peter Meldal is a distinguished Professor of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen's Department of Chemistry, where he has been a faculty member since 2011. He also serves as the head of the Center of Evolutionary Chemical Biology and was previously the Vice-Institute Director of Teaching (2019-2020). His academic career includes leadership roles at the Carlsberg Laboratory as Professor & Director of the SPOCC Centre (1988-2011). Dr. Meldal's educational background features a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the Technical University of Denmark (1983), an M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from DTU (1981), and postdoctoral training at Cambridge University and the H. C. Ørsted Institute at the University of Copenhagen. Meldal's research spans multiple cutting-edge fields at the intersection of chemistry and biology. His pioneering work in combinatorial chemistry and click chemistry has revolutionized chemical biology approaches. He has made seminal contributions to peptide synthesis, polymer chemistry, organic synthesis automation, and the development of artificial receptors and enzymes. His expertise extends to nano-scale analytical techniques including MS and NMR, biomolecular recognition, enzyme activity studies, cellular assays, and molecular immunology. The breadth of his research portfolio demonstrates his ability to bridge fundamental chemical principles with biological applications, particularly in developing novel tools for biomedical research. His specialties include computational chemistry, chemical biology, organic chemistry, polymer science, combinatorial chemistry, enzymology, protein chemistry, GPCRs, structural chemistry, immunology, molecular recognition, catalysis, and nanomaterials. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on Alzheimer's disease research, particularly on $$\text{A}\beta$$ peptide behavior and potential therapeutic interventions. There's also significant work on proteinase activity monitoring, peptide synthesis methodologies, and sustainable chemistry approaches. These publications demonstrate continued innovation in applying chemical principles to address challenging biological questions, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases and protease-related pathologies. Dr. Meldal's scientific excellence has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards: Nobel Prize in Chemistry (2022) Vincent du Vigneaud Award, American Peptide Society (2011) Ralph F. Hirschmann Award, American Chemical Society (2009) Niels Bjerrum Gold Medal in Chemistry, Denmark (1996) The Leonidas Zervas Award, European Peptide Society (1996) Throughout his career, Meldal has secured substantial research funding from major organizations including the Lundbeck Foundation, Novo Nordisk Foundation, Danish National Research Foundation, Danish Cancer Society, and various EU research programs. He has founded multiple companies including Combio A/S (2000), Versamatrix A/S (2002), and Betamab APS (2019), where he serves as CSO. His leadership extends to founding the Society of Combinatorial Sciences and organizing major international symposia in peptide research, including the 31st European Peptide Symposium (2010). Meldal leads a dynamic research group focused on evolutionary chemical biology, with particular emphasis on developing novel chemical tools and methodologies. His Center of Evolutionary Chemical Biology serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research bridging chemistry, biology, and medicine. He has published more than 300 publications, holds 21 patents, and has mentored numerous students and researchers throughout his career. His work on click chemistry has had profound implications across multiple scientific disciplines, earning him the highest recognition in science with the 2022 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Elisabeth Rexen Ulven is an Associate Professor in the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Medicinal Chemistry. Her research focuses on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), particularly free fatty acid receptors, and their role in metabolic diseases and drug discovery. Her research interests span multiple cutting-edge areas of pharmacology and medicinal chemistry: Molecular pharmacology of GPCRs, especially free fatty acid receptors (FFAR1, FFAR2, FFAR4) Structure-activity relationship studies for receptor modulators Development of novel fluorescent tracers for receptor imaging Allosteric modulation and biased signaling in GPCR pharmacology Drug discovery approaches targeting metabolic diseases Receptor signaling mechanisms and therapeutic applications Analysis of her recent publications reveals a cohesive research program focused on understanding GPCR function and developing therapeutic interventions. Her work spans from fundamental receptor pharmacology to translational studies with implications for metabolic disorders. She employs diverse methodologies including medicinal chemistry, molecular imaging, and in vivo pharmacology to advance understanding of GPCR function. Dr. Ulven actively collaborates with researchers both within and outside the University of Copenhagen, as evidenced by her co-authorship on publications in high-impact journals including Nature, Nature Communications, and Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Her work has garnered attention across multiple platforms including academic social media and news outlets. She is part of a research group investigating GPCR targets with significant therapeutic potential, particularly in metabolic diseases, inflammation, and related areas. Her laboratory focuses on the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel compounds targeting specific GPCRs, with emphasis on understanding structure-activity relationships and receptor signaling mechanisms.
Jesper M. Mathiesen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. His research focuses on molecular and cellular pharmacology, particularly studying G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their modulation mechanisms. Dr. Mathiesen's research interests include: Molecular mechanisms of G-protein coupled receptor signaling Allosteric modulation of calcium-sensing receptors Pharmacology of opioid receptors and development of novel therapeutics Structure-function relationships of receptors Drug design targeting receptor systems Nanobody applications in receptor pharmacology His recent publications demonstrate significant contributions to understanding receptor pharmacology, with work appearing in high-impact journals including Nature. His research shows particular expertise in calcium-sensing receptors and opioid receptor systems, with implications for treating disorders related to calcium homeostasis and developing improved pain management therapies with reduced addiction potential. Dr. Mathiesen has received considerable attention for his work, with several publications picked up by numerous news outlets (one paper by 83 news outlets) and referenced in academic platforms including Wikipedia. His collaborative network includes prominent researchers such as Nobel laureate Brian Kobilka.
Hans Bräuner is a faculty member at the University of Copenhagen , specifically affiliated with the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences . As of the latest information, he holds the position of Associate Dean of Research and is actively engaged in academic research. His work spans a diverse range of topics, primarily centered on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) , with a focus on their pharmacological properties, structural dynamics, and roles in physiological processes such as calcium homeostasis , dopamine signaling , and metabolic regulation . Over the years, Bräuner has contributed extensively to the literature, publishing numerous studies that employ advanced methodologies including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing , nanobody-based modulation , and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies . Bräuner's recent publications highlight his expertise in receptor internalization and signaling bias . His research has delved into the mechanisms of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor trafficking, the impact of genetic mutations on G proteins , and the exploration of orphan receptors such as GPR139 and GPR15 . Additionally, he has played a key role in the Concise Guide to PHARMACOLOGY , a critical resource for researchers working on GPCRs and their ligands. His studies often bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications , contributing to the understanding of diseases like familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia and potential therapeutic interventions. Despite his administrative responsibilities, Bräuner remains deeply involved in experimental research , as evidenced by his contributions to assay development for studying receptor activity and his investigations into venom-derived peptides for drug discovery. His collaborations extend across disciplines and institutions, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his work. Notably, he has explored the role of GPCRs in tauopathies and dementia , indicating an interest in translational research. While specific scientific awards or student advisement information are not detailed in the available data, his prolific publication record underscores a significant impact in the field of pharmacology and receptor biology.
Walden Bjørn-Yoshimoto serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. His research focuses on molecular cardiology and membrane proteins, with specialization in cone snail peptides and their interactions with human neuropeptide systems. Education: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2017), University of Copenhagen MSc in Biochemistry (2010), University of Copenhagen BSc in Biochemistry (2007), University of Copenhagen Dr. Bjørn-Yoshimoto's research centers on cone snail peptides (conopeptides) that mimic endogenous neuropeptides, employing bioinformatics algorithms and functional pharmacological assays to identify novel sequences. His work particularly examines conopeptides that interact with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including somatostatin-mimicking peptides with non-opioid analgesic properties. This research has significant implications for developing alternatives to traditional opioids with fewer side effects and lower abuse potential. Research Trends: Analysis of recent publications reveals a strong focus on venom evolution, peptide-receptor interactions, and therapeutic applications of conopeptides. His work bridges evolutionary biology, neuropharmacology, and drug discovery, with particular emphasis on non-opioid pain management solutions and metabolic regulation mechanisms. Awards: 1st prize for best pitch and business concept (December 2, 2022) Dr. Bjørn-Yoshimoto actively mentors students and welcomes research project inquiries through his laboratory. His work has garnered significant attention with coverage by 72 news outlets, mentions on 45 X (Twitter) accounts, references in Wikipedia, and substantial academic readership on Mendeley. His research group collaborates extensively internationally, with notable connections to researchers studying cone snail venoms and neuropeptide systems. The researcher maintains laboratory facilities within the Molecular Cardiology and Membrane Proteins research section at the University of Copenhagen, with additional collaboration through the website https://helenasafavi.com . His work combines computational approaches with experimental pharmacology to advance understanding of peptide-based drug development.
Freja Herborg serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences (SUND), where she conducts research within the Neuropharm and Genetics group and the Gether Lab ( gether-lab ). Her work focuses on molecular mechanisms of dopamine signaling, GPCR biology, and neurodegenerative processes in Parkinson's disease, utilizing advanced techniques including single-molecule microscopy and cellular reprogramming. Her research interests span Neuroscience , Molecular Pharmacology , and Neurogenetics , with specific expertise in dopamine transporter dynamics, GPCR endocytosis, and neuronal reprogramming for therapeutic applications. She investigates how nanoscale organization of neuronal proteins influences neurotransmission and how genetic factors like Synaptojanin1 contribute to Parkinson's disease pathology. Analysis of her 26 research outputs (2022-2025) reveals consistent emphasis on dopamine neuropharmacology and Parkinson's disease mechanisms, with frequent publication in high-impact journals like Science Advances and Nature Communications . Her work bridges molecular biology, neuroimaging, and translational research to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Dr. Herborg operates within the internationally recognized Gether Lab, which specializes in neurotransmitter transporters and G protein-coupled receptors. The lab fosters interdisciplinary collaboration between molecular biologists, neuroscientists, and clinicians to address fundamental questions in neuropharmacology and neurodegeneration.
Jan Hendrik Schmidt serves as a Research Fellow in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, affiliated with the Neuropharm and Genetics research group. His work investigates molecular mechanisms of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in metabolic and neurological disorders. His primary research interests include: Molecular Neuroscience Pharmacology Genetics of Metabolic Disorders Receptor Biology Cellular Neuroscience Obesity and Diabetes Pathophysiology Dr. Schmidt's investigations focus on GPCR endocytosis mechanisms, dopamine neuron regulation of feeding behavior, and scaffolding protein functions in metabolic disease. His recent publications (2020-2025) reveal consistent exploration of membrane curvature effects on receptor trafficking, PICK1's role in insulin granule biogenesis, and identification of novel receptors controlling food intake through interdisciplinary approaches combining structural biology, genetics, and in vivo modeling. As part of the Neuropharm and Genetics group, he contributes to research bridging neuropharmacology and genetic analysis to develop therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders, utilizing advanced cellular and molecular techniques within the Department of Neuroscience at Blegdamsvej 3B, Copenhagen.
Joscha Rombach serves as a Guest Researcher in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, affiliated with the Inflammation, Metabolism and Oxidation research group. His work bridges molecular neuroscience and metabolic disease mechanisms through advanced cellular and molecular techniques. Rombach's research centers on protein-membrane interactions in neurological and metabolic disorders, with emphasis on GPCR trafficking, neuropeptide signaling (particularly NPY), and scaffold protein functions (notably PICK1). His investigations span insulin granule biogenesis in diabetes, chronic pain pathways, and novel biosensor development for real-time neurotransmitter detection, employing cutting-edge approaches like GRAB sensors and membrane curvature analysis. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a cohesive focus on molecular determinants of disease, where protein domain functions (BAR domains, amphipathic helices) are systematically linked to pathological outcomes in diabetes and pain. His collaborative work demonstrates strong translational potential through structural biology insights applied to therapeutic target validation. Rombach operates within the Inflammation, Metabolism and Oxidation research ecosystem at the University of Copenhagen, engaging in multidisciplinary collaborations with neuroscientists, endocrinologists, and structural biologists to dissect disease mechanisms at the molecular level.
Elena Papaleo is an Associate Professor at the Department of Health Technology , Technical University of Denmark (DTU) , specializing in Bioinformatics and Cancer Systems Biology . Her work focuses on integrating computational and structural biology to address complex biomedical questions. Contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being. Active in interdisciplinary research spanning protein dynamics, enzyme dysfunction, and cancer-relevant genetic variants. Research Interests : Elucidating structural and dynamic properties of proteins, including acid sphingomyelinase and succinate receptor (GPR91) . Investigating molecular mechanisms of genetic variants of uncertain significance in cancer predisposition. Developing structure-based methods for protein function and interaction analysis in autophagy and DNA maintenance . Advancing molecular dynamics simulations to study protein-drug and protein-lipid interactions. Scientific Collaborations : Supervising PhD students in projects on childhood cancer variants, autophagy machinery, and molecular binders. Collaborating with researchers in genomics , bioinformatics , and structural biology across institutions. Labs & Teams : Affiliated with DTU Health Technology , she works with interdisciplinary teams to bridge computational approaches with experimental validation in cancer and lysosomal research.
Dr. Andreas Haahr Larsen is an Assistant Professor at the Niels Bohr Institute within the University of Copenhagen , specializing in Solid State Physics with a focus on membrane protein-lipid interactions . His research integrates molecular dynamics simulations with X-ray and neutron scattering techniques to study structural and dynamic aspects of GPCRs , AMPA receptors , and nanodisc systems . His work emphasizes computational-experimental synergy , including SAStutorials.org for scattering data education and Shape2SAS software development. Recent projects explore protein desensitization mechanisms , amphipathic helix functionality , and lipid particle engineering for membrane protein solubilization. Key trends show interdisciplinary applications of structural biology to neuroscience and bioengineering , particularly in GPCR trafficking and AMPA receptor mutations . He leads in data simulation and multi-modal structural analysis , contributing to drug development and biophysics methodologies . Andreas is based at Madsen Lab , located at Universitetsparken 5, building D, Copenhagen Ø. His collaborations span international institutions in X-ray crystallography , neutron scattering , and computational biophysics domains.
Mette Rosenkilde is a Professor at the Department of Biomedical Sciences (BMI), University of Copenhagen, leading the Molecular Pharmacology Laboratory (MolPharm) . Her research focuses on structure-function relationships of 7TM (seven transmembrane) G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in metabolic and neurological diseases. Key research areas include: GIP and GLP-1 receptor pharmacology Adhesion GPCR signaling mechanisms Drug discovery for obesity and diabetes Receptor dynamics in neuroendocrine regulation Collaborations with biotech startups (Antag Therapeutics, Synklino) Selected research trends from her 297+ publications span: GIP receptor antagonists for obesity, adhesion GPCR signaling complexities, and GLP-1 receptor modulation of intracranial pressure. Her work bridges molecular pharmacology and translational medicine. Collaborations include: Antag Therapeutics Bainan Biotech Synklino International research networks across Europe
