By David Graff, AAU Communikation and Public Affairs

On December 1st, an experienced and high-profiled researcher and entrepreneur starts as Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science.

Jesper Wengel graduated in chemistry and biology from Odense University where he received his PhD in 1992.

- I am delighted that we succeeded in attracting Jesper Wengel to Aalborg University. The appointment committee agreed that with Jesper we will have a skilled leader, a high-profiled researcher, and an experienced entrepreneur, says Rector Per Michael Johansen.

The rector also emphasizes Jesper Wengel's appreciation for the entire value chain from basic research via mission-oriented research to product development.

At age 32, Jesper Wengel was in 1996 appointed Professor of Bioorganic Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen. From there in 2000 he returned to Odense and the University of Southern Denmark where until 2023 he was head of various centers and research projects with support from, among others, the Danish National Research Foundation, the VILLUM Foundation, and the EU (including an ERC Advanced Grant).

Jesper Wengel's research has led to the establishment of several companies, and he has at times been directly involved in the operation and development of commercial companies within biotech and lifestyle. Jesper also has extensive teaching experience and in 2016-2021 was a board member of Independent Research Fund Denmark.

Jesper Wengel looks forward to putting his skills to work for the faculty and AAU.

- I am convinced that my background as a professor at both the University of Copenhagen and the University of Southern Denmark, with documented results in research, education, innovation, and management, gives me a good foundation to be dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science, or ENG, which I understand it to be known as informally.

He has great respect for the reputation of the Faculty of Engineering and Science both nationally and internationally.

- I will focus on ensuring that the Faculty continues to be at the forefront of developing future solutions to the rather wild challenges that the world is currently experiencing, says , Jesper Wengel.

Jesper Wengel turns 61 on October 22nd, he is married and moves with his family to Aalborg, his primary workplace.