Michael Lisby is a Professor in Genome Integrity at the Department of Biology , University of Copenhagen , and leads research in Functional Genomics . His work focuses on homologous recombination (HR) and its role in genome stability , with applications in cancer genetics , neurological disorders , and cellular aging . PhD in Science (2000) from Aarhus University , studying topoisomerase mechanisms Postdoctoral Fellowship at Columbia University (2000-2004) His research combines cell biological and genetic methods to analyze HR regulation via post-translational modifications and chromatin structure , while also developing genetic libraries for biopharmaceutical applications . Recent work includes computational modeling of excitable media in yeast, DNA repair in mitosis , and protein stability in metabolic diseases . Scientific Awards : European Research Council Starting Grant (2009) NNF Distinguished Investigator Grant (2019-2024) Carlsberg Foundation Semper Arden Grant (2023-2028) He has held managerial roles as Vice-head of Department for Research (2015-present) and Head of Section for Functional Genomics (2010-2015).
Helle Jakobe Martens serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen, specifically within the Forest and Bioressources division. With a Cand.Hort and PhD, she maintains an active research profile with 78 research outputs and 29 professional activities documented in recent years. Her research focuses on plant anatomy and its integration with diverse applications including wood and fiber products, food and feed structures, and enzymatically degraded plant material. Key research areas include plant vascular biology (hydraulic conductivity in tree species, phloem loading mechanisms, and graft union formation in fruit trees), visualization of nano-sized structures, and development of methods for studying nanoparticle uptake and transport in plants. Her technical expertise spans confocal, fluorescence, light, and electron microscopy, laser capture microdissection, immunohistology, and image analysis. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong interdisciplinary approach connecting plant science with nanotechnology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Her work spans fundamental plant biology to applied research in wood science, bioimaging, and nutritional enhancement. The 2025 publications on peat polysaccharides and wood decay under anoxia demonstrate her continued focus on plant material structure-function relationships, while her 2024 review on polyploidy in trees addresses critical climate adaptation questions. Professional activities show significant engagement with the academic community through conference organization (including the Bioimaging Workshop Copenhagen in 2007), lectures (such as at Dansk Biologiolympiade in 2020), committee service (including PhD Assessment Committees), and international collaboration (including work with Unidad de Fruticultura, CITA-DGA in Spain). Her research has garnered substantial attention with multiple publications receiving dozens of Mendeley readers and social media mentions.
Rosa Laura Lopez Marques is a Professor in Plant Membrane Biotechnology at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences (PLEN), University of Copenhagen since October 1, 2024. Previously, she served as a Tenured Associate Professor and Group Leader at PLEN from 2012 to 2024, and as a Junior Group Leader at the Centre for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease-PUMPkin from 2008 to 2012. Doctor scientiarum, University of Copenhagen (2023) PhD in Chemistry (Cum laude), University of Seville, Spain (2004) MSc in cellular and molecular biology, University of Seville, Spain (2002) Major in Chemistry (Honors), University of Seville, Spain (2000) Professor Lopez Marques' research focuses on understanding the role of lipid flippases (P4-ATPases) in plant adaptation to biotic and abiotic stress. Her group has developed techniques to study the mechanism, regulation, and physiological role of plant lipid flippases, including molecular biology, biochemistry, advanced bioimaging, and high-throughput analysis tools. Her work aims to apply this knowledge to generate crops resilient to environmental stresses to ensure future food production. Her research output demonstrates a strong focus on plant membrane biology, particularly lipid transport mechanisms and their applications in crop improvement. Recent publications highlight work on quinoa breeding, saponin biosynthesis regulation, and the molecular mechanisms of P4-ATPase lipid flippases in plant stress adaptation. Keynote speaker, XXIV International Symposium in Plant Lipids (2022) Nominee, Teacher of the Year Award, Faculty of Science, Copenhagen University (2021) Faculty Member, Faculty of 1000 (since 2020) Invited speaker at multiple international conferences on plant membrane biology and lipid flippases Professor Lopez Marques actively supervises students and secures significant research funding. She currently supervises 4 PhD students (2 as main supervisor) and has supervised 11 PhD students since 2008 (7 as main supervisor). Her grant portfolio includes projects from Carlsberg Foundation, Novo Nordisk Fonden, Det Fri Forskningsråd, and Spanish Ministry of Science, totaling millions of DKK and Euros. She serves as PI or co-PI on multiple projects focused on plant membrane biology and crop improvement. She leads the Section for Transport Biology at PLEN and is actively involved in the NovoCrops center as a WP leader. Professor Lopez Marques also serves as Vice-President of the Scandinavian Plant Physiology Society and on the Faculty Board at the University of Copenhagen.
Ulrik Braüner Nielsen is a Senior Researcher at the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen. His research focuses on forest genetics, particularly related to Christmas tree production and Abies species. Dr. Nielsen's research interests include: Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding Christmas Tree and Greenery Production Tree-Insect and Tree-Fungus Interactions Genus Abies Species for Timber and Christmas Tree Production Biomass Production His recent work has centered on genetic variation in Nordmann fir (Abies nordmanniana), somatic embryogenesis, SNP genotyping, and disease resistance. Dr. Nielsen has published extensively on conifer genetics with 146 research outputs, demonstrating a consistent research trajectory focused on improving Christmas tree production through genetic research. His work bridges molecular genetics with practical forestry applications, particularly in the areas of propagation techniques and genetic improvement of conifer species. Dr. Nielsen serves as a member of Plantedirektoratet (Danish Forest and Nature Agency) and has been involved with this organization from 2011-2012, contributing his expertise to national forestry policy and management decisions. Outside of his professional work, Dr. Nielsen maintains a personal connection to his research area as a hobby farmer with his own production of Christmas trees and greenery, as well as seeds, which likely provides practical insights that inform his academic research.
Torben Toldam-Andersen serves as Associate Professor at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, where he leads research and teaching in pomology and viticulture. Scientifically responsible for the Pometum in Taastrup, he oversees Denmark's national fruit tree collection and directs studies on cool-climate fruit production. His academic journey includes: MSc in Horticultural Sciences (1991) from The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University PhD in Pomology (1995) focusing on black currant physiology Research spans carbon physiology in fruit development, flowering mechanisms in sour cherry, juice-quality optimization, cryopreservation of genetic resources, and Nordic viticulture. His work integrates biochemical analysis of sugars/acids with practical horticulture, emphasizing adaptation to Scandinavian growing conditions through physiological and genetic approaches. Recent publications (2024-2025) reveal concentrated focus on cold-climate viticulture, including development of Nordic grape varieties (FastGrapes project), climate-vineyard interactions, and disease management. This body of work demonstrates systematic progression from fundamental fruit physiology to applied solutions for marginal-wine regions. He actively supervises bachelor's and master's students while managing the Pometum's germplasm collection. Key collaborative initiatives include Nordic cryopreservation networks and preservation projects for historical cherry varieties with Danish agricultural museums. The Pometum functions as both a living laboratory and conservation site, housing 250+ apple varieties and supporting research on phenology, genetic diversity, and climate resilience in temperate fruit crops.
Mette Sørensen is a Guest Researcher at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, specializing in plant biochemistry with a focus on specialized metabolites in Eucalyptus trees. Her research examines plant-environment interactions through the lens of chemical defense mechanisms. Her primary research interests include: Specialized metabolites in plants Cyanogenic glucoside biosynthesis and regulation Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) profiling Plant defense mechanisms Plant-environment interactions Eucalyptus biochemistry and ecology Dr. Sørensen's research program combines molecular-level investigations with ecosystem-scale studies. She has established a collection of over 30 Eucalyptus species in Copenhagen, with half her research conducted in Danish glasshouses and the other half in Australia through collaboration with the University of Melbourne. Her work bridges gene-level analysis with broader ecological implications, particularly regarding how climate change affects plant defense mechanisms. Her scientific contributions span plant biochemistry, molecular biology, and sustainable biomanufacturing, with a consistent focus on understanding plant chemical defense systems and their applications. Her research demonstrates strong international collaboration, particularly with Australian institutions. Dr. Sørensen has received recognition for her work, with publications featured in multiple news outlets, policy documents, and social media platforms, indicating the broader impact of her research.
Jing Xu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Forest and Bioressources. She holds positions in both teaching and research, focusing on innovative approaches to forest tree genetics and breeding. Her educational background includes a PhD in Forest and Landscape Genetics from the University of Copenhagen (2014-2018), a Master's in Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding from Northwest A&F University in China (2011-2014), and a Bachelor's in Forestry from the same institution (2007-2011). She also completed a visiting scholarship at NC State University in the US during 2017-2018. Dr. Xu's research focuses on developing faster solutions for forest tree breeding in response to climate change threats. Her work centers on breeding without breeding (BWB) techniques using DNA markers like microsatellites and SNPs to reconstruct pedigrees in production stands. She investigates tree-pathogen-insect-environment interactions to improve resistance traits and has developed innovative phenotyping methods using drone-based remote sensing for drought stress assessment in forest trees. Her research spans forest genetics, quantitative genetics, genomics, statistical analysis, forest pathology, and forest entomology. Analysis of her publication record shows a strong focus on conifer genetics, particularly Nordmann fir and other Abies species, with significant contributions to Christmas tree production, disease resistance, and advanced breeding techniques. Her work demonstrates increasing application of genomic technologies to traditional forest tree breeding challenges. NordGen Forest-SNS scholarship (2023) Dr. Xu has been actively involved in teaching since 2016, initially as a teaching assistant for bachelor courses in Genetics and Molecular Genetics, and currently lecturing in Genetics for bachelor students and Experimental Plant Science for master's students. She has presented her research at multiple international conferences and engaged in collaborations with institutions including Umeå Plant Science Centre and NC State University. Her work addresses critical challenges in forest resilience and sustainable tree production in the face of climate change.
Anders Ræbild serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Forest and Landscape Ecology. His research focuses on multipurpose tree species within tropical agroforestry systems, with extensive fieldwork across Sahelian West Africa (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger). Education: MSc in Forestry PhD in Ecophysiology (thesis: effects of salt stress on $$Picea abies$$) Dr. Ræbild's research program centers on genetic adaptation of Sahelian tree species through provenance trials of $$Acacia$$ spp., $$Adansonia digitata$$, $$Parkia biglobosa$$, and $$Vitellaria paradoxa$$. His work integrates morphological variation, phenology, and drought stress responses to develop breeding strategies for fruit trees in arid regions. Current projects address tree/crop interactions in agroforestry systems, shade-tolerant crop identification, and regeneration of parkland species. His research directly tackles food security challenges through improved tree seed systems for smallholder farmers. Analysis of his 131+ publications reveals dominant trends in climate-resilient tree breeding, drone-based drought assessment, and sustainable cocoa/coffee agroforestry systems. His work consistently bridges fundamental plant physiology with practical applications in developing countries. Dr. Ræbild supervises four PhD students and coordinates international collaborations through the EU-funded SAFRUIT project. His teaching includes Applied Tree Biology and Arboriculture, emphasizing ecological principles for landscape management.
Lene Rostgaard Nielsen is a Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Forest and Landscape Ecology. She has been a faculty member since 2003, progressing from Postdoctoral Fellow to her current position as Professor since 2022. Her work focuses on plant population genetics, particularly how tree species adapt to environmental changes and diseases. Dr. Nielsen received her educational training at the University of Copenhagen: Ph.D. in Botany (2002) M.Sc. (cand. scient.) (1998) Her research centers on plant population genetics with a focus on how long-lived tree species interact with and adapt to rapidly changing environments. She studies the impacts of increased temperatures, forest fragmentation, and human-introduced non-native species on endangered plants. Since 2006, her primary focus has been on genetic aspects of infectious diseases affecting host tree species, particularly ash dieback caused by Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. She investigates genetic mechanisms behind resistance and the role of microbiomes in tree resilience using field assessments, greenhouse experiments, and advanced molecular techniques including whole genome sequencing. Analysis of Dr. Nielsen's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on ash dieback disease, tree-pathogen interactions, and forest conservation. Her work spans evolutionary biology, population genetics, and forest pathology, with particular emphasis on Fraxinus excelsior (common ash). She employs cutting-edge genomic approaches including GWAS, RNA-seq, and metabarcoding to understand tree resistance mechanisms. Her research increasingly examines the role of microbiomes in tree health and has expanded to investigate cross-resistance between different tree pathogens. Dr. Nielsen has supervised numerous PhD students whose research aligns with her expertise: Feng Long: The Fraxinus excelsior holobiome (ongoing) Corrie Lynne Madsen: Detection of invasive pathogens in Danish forests (completed 2022) Kristin Lassen: Improving fruit production in Burkina Faso (completed 2016) Ida Hartvig: Conservation of Dalbergia timber species (completed 2015) Adja Diallo: Polyploidy in Acacia senegal (completed 2015) Lea Vig McKinney: Genetic aspects of ash dieback (completed 2013) She teaches 'Processes in Nature 1 - Plants and Landscape' at the BSc level and 'Tropical Botany' at the MSc level, integrating her research expertise into classroom instruction.
James Doonan serves as Assistant Professor in Forest and Landscape Ecology within the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Science. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying tree-pathogen interactions, utilizing advanced genomic and transcriptomic approaches. His primary research interests include forest pathology , pathogen genomics , and tree-microbiome relationships . Current investigations center on Ash Dieback disease in European ash ( Fraxinus excelsior ) caused by Hymenscyphus fraxineus , aiming to identify genomic bases of tolerance. Previous work examined bacterial pathogens in oak trees contributing to Acute Oak Decline, revealing interactions between pathogens and the native insect Agrilus biguttatus . Analysis of his recent publications shows consistent focus on forest disease mechanisms using cutting-edge genomic techniques. His work spans fungal pathogens, bacterial diseases, and nematode interactions, with strong emphasis on European tree species conservation. Collaborative research extends across multiple European institutions, reflecting international engagement in forest pathology. Dr. Doonan's research methodology integrates molecular biology, DNA/RNA sequencing, and computational approaches to address critical challenges in forest health. His work provides foundational knowledge for developing disease-resistant tree varieties and sustainable forest management strategies.
Erik Dahl Kjær serves as Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Science. His research focuses on forest genetics and climate adaptation, leading the Forest Genetics and Diversity research group studying over 25 European tree species including Quercus, Fraxinus, Tilia, and Pinus . He manages the Hørsholm Arboretum (Denmark's national arboretum with 1,500+ woody species) and maintains international collaborations with West Africa and India on tropical species. His research interests integrate genomic techniques with dendroecology to address climate challenges. Key areas include genetically sustainable forest management , microbiome interactions in tree health , and adaptive capacity of native species like Danish oak. Recent work examines ash dieback tolerance mechanisms and polyploid advantages in stress environments. Publication trends show strong emphasis on genomic applications for conservation (2025 articles dominate output), with significant focus on European forest genetic resources and microbiome-mediated adaptation. His work bridges fundamental genetics with practical forestry guidelines for climate-resilient management. Professional activities include committee leadership in Danish forest reproductive material governance and international research assessment roles. His teaching encompasses all academic levels (BSc to postdoc) with deputy head responsibilities for departmental teaching. Fieldwork spans European common garden trials, tropical species studies in West Africa, and three-decade teak research in India. Current major projects address oak adaptation to warmer/drier conditions and ash forest recovery strategies following pathogen outbreaks.
Chatchai Kosawang is an Associate Professor at the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen. His research focuses on forest pathology, microbial ecology, and sustainable management of plant diseases. Key affiliations include the Forest and Landscape Ecology section where he investigates plant-microbe interactions in natural and agricultural ecosystems. Research interests center on: Biological control of invasive species and plant pathogens Forest microbiome dynamics and tree disease resilience Molecular mechanisms of plant-fungal interactions Soil microbial communities in ecosystem restoration Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on: Bioherbicide development against aquatic weeds Genetic basis of ash dieback tolerance Nematode-suppressive rhizobacteria Mycobiome transmission in forest trees Pathogen characterization in tropical crops This work bridges fundamental mycology with applied solutions for forest and agricultural sustainability.
Ole Kim Hansen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Forest and Bioresources. With over 25 years of experience in forest genetics, he has established himself as a leading researcher in quantitative and molecular genetics of forest trees. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Forestry (1996) with a thesis in quantitative genetics of Christmas trees, a Master of Science in Forestry (1999) focusing on genecological zonation of Pinus merkusii through multivariate statistics, and a PhD (2002-2005) on DNA markers in Abies nordmanniana. Following his doctoral studies, he gained comprehensive experience with development and use of DNA markers for population genetic studies, combining parentage analysis with quantitative genetic analysis. Dr. Hansen's research focuses on several key areas: Functionality and genetics of clonal seed orchards Establishment of Quasi-field trials as a breeding tool for trees Development of DNA markers in woody species The genetic consequences of domestication of woody species His recent scholarly work (2023-2025) demonstrates a strong emphasis on genomic approaches to forest tree breeding and conservation. Analysis of his publications reveals consistent focus on applying molecular genetics to address challenges in forest management, particularly in the context of climate change. His research spans from fundamental genetic studies of conifers and beech species to practical applications in tree breeding programs across Europe and tropical regions. Dr. Hansen is actively involved in teaching at the university level, instructing courses in Genetics and Molecular Genetics (course no. 240066). He also participates in international scientific collaborations and has contributed to the scientific community through conference presentations including the IUFRO Tree Biotechnology conference and the XVII International Botanical Congress. His media contributions, particularly on cloned Christmas trees in 2005-2006, demonstrate his commitment to public engagement. With 86 research outputs to his name, including numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, Dr. Hansen maintains an active research program that bridges molecular genetics with practical forest management solutions.
Lars Graudal serves as Senior Advisor in the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Life Sciences. He has been Head of Division for Forest Genetic Resources and the LIFE Arboretum at the Danish Centre for Forest, Landscape and Planning since 2004. With twenty-five years of professional experience, including ten years in management roles, Graudal has extensive field experience from over fifty missions to more than twenty countries, primarily in tropical regions. His expertise spans project appraisal, formulation, implementation, and evaluation, with significant fund-raising capabilities that have supported numerous international forestry initiatives. His research interests focus on: Use and conservation of genetic resources of trees International policy dialogue in forestry and environment Biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation Desertification prevention and biomass for energy development Agroforestry systems and landscape restoration Tree seed and seedling sector development Graudal's recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on creating practical resources for forest management, including global databases for agroforestry species and native trees. His work bridges scientific research with practical application in international development contexts, particularly in tropical countries, with publications receiving significant attention across academic and policy circles. His professional activities include: Chair of Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations committees (2011-2012) Member of Danish Ministry of Science committees (2011-2012) Member of Danish Planting Associations (2011-2012) Member of Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs committees (2011-2012) Former Member of FAO Panel of Experts on Forest Gene Resources (2001-2007) His research has been widely disseminated, with 175 recorded publications across multiple formats including reports, journal articles, and book chapters, demonstrating his significant contribution to the field of forest genetic resources and international forestry policy.
