Norwegian University of Science and TechnologyNorway
Trygve Brautaset is a Professor at the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science within the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) . His research primarily focuses on synthetic biology and microbial molecular biology, with significant contributions to methylotrophic bacteria engineering and methanol-based bioproduction systems. Project Leader for Centre for Digital Life Norway Board Member, Vectron Biosolutions Member, Norwegian Biotechnology Advisory Board Research Interests: Specializing in synthetic biology and metabolic engineering , Brautaset has extensive publications on Bacillus methanolicus systems, including methanol-based production of amino acids, vitamins, and organic acids. His work explores microbial physiology, genetic tool development, and biorefinery applications. Publication Trends: Recent studies (2025-2021) show consistent focus on methanol utilization , thermophilic biocatalysis , and metabolic flux optimization . Key outputs include systems-level analyses of amino acid production, formaldehyde metabolism, and seaweed-based feedstock conversion.
Pierre Chymkowitch is an Associate Professor at the University of Oslo , affiliated with the Section for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology . His research focuses on the transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of cell fate and the dynamics of SUMOylation in chromatin remodeling during adipocyte differentiation . He employs advanced techniques such as ChIP-seq, RNA-seq, and confocal microscopy to study human and murine adipose stem cells, linking these mechanisms to obesity-related diseases like diabetes and cancer. Academic Rank: Associate Professor Institution: University of Oslo Section: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Email: pierre.chymkowitch@ibv.uio.no Research Interests Transcriptional regulation in cellular differentiation SUMOylation-mediated chromatin dynamics Adipose tissue biology and obesity-related diseases Cell cycle and transcriptional homeostasis Epigenetic mechanisms in carcinogenesis Publication Trends Chymkowitch's recent work (2025) explores SUMOylation inhibition as a therapeutic target for metabolic disorders via TAK-981. Earlier studies (2023-2011) span mitotic chromatin resetting , Cdk1 regulation of transcription , and sumoylation in ribosomal gene expression , with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches bridging molecular biology and clinical applications. Laboratory & Team He leads the Chymkowitch group at the University of Oslo, collaborating on high-throughput genomic methods and classical biochemistry to unravel SUMOylation networks in developmental and disease contexts.
Sudarshan Shantinath Patil is a Researcher and Head Engineer at the Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen. He holds roles as Lecturer in courses such as FARM301A (protein production), FARM150 (membrane transport), and neuroscience courses (BMED340/BMED320). His research focuses on synaptic plasticity, mRNA translation regulation, protein interactions (e.g., Arc, Annexin A2), and neurodegenerative mechanisms. He has supervised multiple Master’s theses and contributed to studies on dopamine production, neurogenesis, and drug candidate screening using cell models. Patil’s work integrates molecular biology, neuroscience, and translational research. Key contributions include elucidating roles of Arc protein in LTP, Annexin family RNA-binding traits, and the influence of metabolic pathways on neural function. His research groups include Neurotargeting and Basic & Translational Neuroscience. He has over 20 peer-reviewed publications, with recent work emphasizing translational control mechanisms in the dentate gyrus and novel natural compounds’ therapeutic potential. Awards: None explicitly listed. Grants: Multiple projects funded by the Research Council of Norway (e.g., projects 204861, 249951, 259939). His lab collaborates internationally, with studies involving Alzheimer’s models, antidepressant mechanisms, and shift work impacts on brain plasticity.
Sebastian Georg Zieglmeier is a Research Fellow at the University of Oslo's Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, affiliated with the Section for Autonomous Systems and Sensor Technologies. His research focuses on advanced control systems, energy systems, and machine learning applications such as reinforcement learning and deep learning. He explores modeling techniques for autonomous power systems and data-driven control strategies. His recent publications emphasize RNA engineering, therapeutic applications, and immunogenicity reduction in vaccines. Key areas include RNA purification, lipid-based formulations, and cancer-targeted agents. Zieglmeier's work bridges biotechnology and engineering, with contributions to molecular diagnostics and vaccine development. While no specific grants or awards are noted, his research aligns with cutting-edge technologies in mRNA therapeutics and autonomous systems. He is based at the University of Oslo's Institute of Transport Economics (ITS) and contributes to interdisciplinary projects at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.
Pål Falnes is a Professor at the University of Oslo , affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology . His research focuses on protein methylation, particularly in mitochondrial contexts and its implications for RNA/DNA repair mechanisms. Active in studying seven-β-strand (METTL) methyltransferases and their roles in lysine methylation. Investigates mitochondrial enzymatic activity , including ATP synthase and citrate synthase regulation. Research Interests : Dr. Falnes specializes in post-translational modifications , particularly lysine and histidine methylation. His work bridges protein-RNA interactions , translation dynamics , and mitochondrial metabolism , with recent studies on METTL family members like METTL13, METTL18, and FAM173B. Article Trends : Publications highlight METTL methyltransferases in human proteomics, mitochondrial respiration regulation, and DNA/RNA repair via AlkB proteins. Key themes include chronic pain mechanisms , ribosome biogenesis , and sequence-specific enzymatic methylation . Research Groups : He leads the Biological Methylation - Falnes group and contributes to the Center for Computational Inference in Evolutionary Life Science (CELS) .
Eivind Valen is a Professor at the University of Oslo and holds multiple associate leadership roles at the Center for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM) , Center for Myeloid Blood Cancer (C-MYC) , Computational Biology Unit (CBU) , and Michael Sars Center . His research spans RNA biology, genome editing, and translation regulation. Research Focus: Investigates pervasive translation in non-coding regions, CRISPR applications, and RNA structure using nanopore sequencing. Key Tools: Developed CHOPCHOP platforms and ORFik for genome editing and translation analysis. Recent Article Trends: Emphasize ribosome profiling, poly(A) tail dynamics, and CRISPR precision. Awards: Includes ERC Consolidator Grant, EIC Pathfinder award, and KG Jebsen Center recognition. Collaborations: Engaged with institutions across Norway and Europe, including Technische Universität Dresden and EMBL nodes.
Professor Espen Rimstad is a leading virologist at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), affiliated with the School of Veterinary Science and the Virology Department. He leads a research group of 10–12 scientists focused on viral infections in fish, particularly in aquaculture species such as Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout. His research interests include: Viral diseases in fish (e.g., pancreas disease, cardiomyopathy syndrome, HSMI) Vaccinology, including plant-made and mRNA-based vaccines Pathogenesis of piscine orthoreovirus (PRV), salmonid alphavirus (SAV), and infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV) Fish immunology and host-pathogen interactions Emerging viral threats in aquaculture His recent publications reflect a strong trend in developing novel vaccine platforms, understanding immune responses in fish, and characterizing viral pathogenesis using advanced molecular and transcriptomic techniques. Many of his studies focus on improving fish health and aquaculture sustainability through science-based solutions. Scientific contributions include: Over 329 publications with high citation impact Leadership in national risk assessments (e.g., VKM) Development of inactivated and live attenuated vaccines Pioneering work on mRNA-LNP delivery in fish He has advised numerous students and researchers, though specific names are not listed. His work is supported by major research projects such as ViVaFish (Fish Virus Vaccines). He collaborates extensively with institutions like the Norwegian Veterinary Institute and international partners. He is also involved in ethical and environmental assessments related to aquaculture practices. Rimstad is active in multiple laboratories and research networks, contributing to both fundamental and applied aspects of fish virology. His lab at NMBU is a hub for innovation in aquatic animal health, with ongoing work on viral diagnostics, vaccine development, and disease mitigation strategies.
Kornel Labun is a Researcher at the Department of Informatics, University of Bergen. His work focuses on CRISPR genome editing, bioinformatics tool development, and computational biology. He holds a PhD in bioinformatics (2020) and has contributed to high-impact projects like CHOPCHOP, ampliCan, and ORFik. His research integrates advanced sequencing technologies with algorithmic solutions for genetic analysis. Key areas include CRISPR off-target detection, RNA sequencing analysis, and poly(A) tail measurement via tools like tailfindr. Labun's work bridges computational methods with biomedical applications, such as correcting T-cell deficiencies using CRISPR-Cas9 systems. He also develops open-source software for translational research, emphasizing reproducibility and scalability. Labun's projects span bioinformatics education (R Crash Course), game design (Hunter x Hunter tabletop RPG), and computational tools for longevity research. His collaborative efforts have led to widely cited resources like the CHOPCHOP website, used globally by researchers in genome engineering.
Anne Katrine Kvissel is an Associate Professor in the Department of Natural Sciences at the University of Agder (UiA), Norway. She holds a PhD in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Oslo and has held academic and research positions at UiO, Uppsala University, and Akershus University Hospital before joining UiA in 2015. Her academic role combines research, teaching, and editorial contributions to the field of bioengineering. Her educational background includes a PhD in Medical Biochemistry (2006, UiO), an MSc in Biotechnology (2000, Griffith University, Australia), and a degree in Bioengineering (1996, Oslo University College). Her research focuses on medical biochemistry, hematology, preanalytical factors, molecular diagnostics, and ethical aspects of bioengineering. She has conducted extensive research on protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathways, RNA splicing mechanisms, and their implications in cancer and neurological models. More recently, her work has expanded into clinical diagnostics, including pseudothrombocytopenia, capillary hemoglobin variation, and the role of the microbiome in colorectal cancer and seminal fluid. She has also contributed significantly to bioengineering education, publishing on curriculum design, digitalization, and professional identity. Her recent publications (2018–2023) reflect a shift toward applied clinical research and educational innovation, while maintaining a strong foundation in molecular mechanisms. Topics include microbiome analysis, diagnostic accuracy, and pedagogical strategies in higher education. Scientific Editor, Journal of the Norwegian Bioengineer (2013–present) Active contributor to national and international discussions on bioengineering education and ethics She has supervised and collaborated with numerous researchers, particularly in studies involving PKA regulation and splicing factors. Although no formal advisees are listed, her collaborative work includes extensive co-authorship with research teams at UiO, Uppsala, and UiA. She is not listed as leading any specific lab or research center, but her publications indicate ongoing involvement in biomedical research groups, particularly in molecular diagnostics and education.
Magnar Bjørås is a Researcher at the Department of Microbiology , University of Oslo. His work spans interdisciplinary research at the intersection of molecular biology, DNA repair, and microbiology, with a particular focus on bacterial pathogenesis and host-virus interactions. Key research themes: DNA repair enzymes, epitranscriptomic modifications, and gene expression dynamics Active collaborations with teams across Norway and international institutions Developed novel methodologies for nucleic acid extraction and antimicrobial peptide design Recent publications highlight his expertise in: DNA glycosylase functions in neurogenesis and metabolic diseases Combinatorial antiviral therapies against coronaviruses and enteroviruses Epigenetic mechanisms in immunodeficiency and cancer His group employs cutting-edge approaches in: Redox biology and oxidative stress responses Computational analysis of regulatory mutations Nanotechnology for biomedical applications
Norwegian University of Science And TechnologyNorway
Magnar Bjørås is a Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), affiliated with the Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine under the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. His research focuses on genome dynamics, oxidative stress, DNA repair mechanisms, and epigenetic stability. He leads projects on DNA repair in cancer, oxidative DNA modifications, bacterial toxin-antitoxin systems, and nanoparticle technology for genomics. His research group investigates the role of DNA repair in neurodegeneration, cognition, and diseases like infections, heart failure, and cancer. Key projects include collaborations with clinicians to study disease impacts of DNA repair deficits and developing nanoparticle-based tools for genomic analysis. Notable contributions include characterizing DNA repair enzymes, solving protein-DNA complex structures, and identifying novel functions of repair mechanisms beyond canonical DNA maintenance. Recent work explores synergistic antiviral drug combinations, NEIL3's role in neurogenesis and behavior, and the interplay between oxidative damage and gene regulation. His group also develops low-cost nucleic acid extraction methods using magnetic nanoparticles, with applications in microbial profiling and viral research. Collaborations extend to Oslo University Hospital and the University of Oslo, emphasizing translational research in clinical contexts. Projects on lysosomal storage disorders and rare neurodegenerative diseases highlight his interdisciplinary approach to bridging basic science and clinical challenges.
Norwegian University of Science And TechnologyNorway
Therese Haugdahl Nøst holds dual academic roles as an Associate Professor (70%) at UiT The Arctic University of Norway’s Department of Community Medicine and a 50% Researcher position at NTNU’s HUNT Research Centre, Department of Public Health and Nursing. She specializes in epidemiology, genomics, and public health with a focus on genetic variants, omics signals, and environmental health impacts. Her work leverages large-scale population studies like the HUNT Study and contributes to Biobank Norway’s research initiatives. PhD in Health Sciences (2014, UiT) MSc in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (2009, NTNU) BSc in Biology (2007, NTNU) Her research investigates environmental pollutants (PFAS, PCBs), biomarkers for diseases like venous thromboembolism and lung cancer, and genetic risk factors. Notable contributions include identifying plasma biomarkers for early cancer detection and analyzing longitudinal trends in pollutant exposure. Recent articles highlight her work on microRNA-based lung cancer prediction, PFAS exposure impacts, and genetic associations with trace elements. She collaborates internationally on projects like the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) and contributes to methodological advancements in omics data integration. Labs/Teams: Active in the HUNT Research Centre and HUNT Biobank, focusing on population-based epidemiology and translational research.
Asim Kanti Duttaroy is a Professor in the Division of Clinical Nutrition at the University of Oslo's Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine. His research focuses on the roles of food components in growth, disease prevention, fatty acid metabolism in placental development, and anti-platelet properties of fruits/vegetables. He holds international patents on anti-thrombotic factors in tomatoes and kiwifruits, commercialized by companies like IDIA AS. His academic contributions include over 240 research papers, several books, and editorship of the Food & Nutrition Research journal. He teaches courses such as ERN3200 and MED1100 and has supervised 35 PhD/MD students. His work bridges nutrition, cardiovascular health, and placental biology, emphasizing maternal nutrition's impact on fetal development. Key research themes include fatty acid transport in trophoblasts, gut microbiota's role in neurodevelopment, and functional foods' cardio-protective effects. His articles reflect trends in nutritional medicine, epigenetics, and translational research in chronic diseases. While no formal awards are listed, his patents highlight significant contributions to functional food research. His academic advising and grants (unspecified details) underpin his leadership in nutritional sciences. Collaborations with global teams drive his work in placental biology and anti-platelet agents.
Knut Tomas Dalen is a Professor at the Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo . He leads the Norwegian Transgenic Center (NTS) since 2013, focusing on genetically modified animal models for metabolic disease research. Education : PhD in Molecular Nutrition (2005, UiO); Biochemistry Candidatus Scientiarum (1999, UiO); Chemical Engineering (1995, Østfold University College) His research bridges molecular nutrition and lipid droplet biology , with key interests in transcriptional regulation via nuclear receptors, genetic engineering of animal models, and lifestyle diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. Recent work explores lipid droplet dynamics in diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Scientific output spans 15+ peer-reviewed articles annually, covering topics like PLIN protein function , RNA modifications in development, and environmental risk assessments for transgenic salmon. Collaborations include institutions in Norway, Sweden, and the US NIH. Key Awards : Throne Holst Foundation Manuscript Awards (2014, 2018); NIH Research Fellowships (2005) He contributes to educational programs (ERN1010, ERN3200) and regulatory frameworks for genome-edited organisms. Current projects include Dietary prevention of cholesterol-induced trained immunity and NutriFrail , linking nutrition to chronic disease mechanisms.
Asta Juzenienne serves as an Associate Professor in Biophysics and Medical Physics at the University of Oslo , Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. Her research bridges photobiology, radiation oncology, and vitamin D photobiology. Current focus on targeted alpha therapy and photodynamic treatment mechanisms Collaborative work with institutions like Oslo University Hospital and international research teams Her recent publications highlight innovations in: 224Ra/212Pb dual targeting for disseminated cancers PSMA-directed radioligands for prostate cancer UV radiation's role in vitamin D/folate dynamics Drug interactions with melanoma risk Advanced delivery systems for photosensitizers