DTU professor appointed new chair of the Danish National Research Foundation

Professor Nørskov is internationally recognized for his research in catalysis, the process of using catalysts to control chemical processes, and his research has helped to establish a framework for the understanding of theoretical catalysis.

After eight years as a professor at the prestigious Stanford University, USA, Nørskov returned to Denmark and DTU Physics in the summer of 2018 to head the new Catalysis Theory Center.

However, before leaving for Standford, Professor Nørskov was employed at DTU from 1987-2010, where he established and headed the Center for Atomic-scale Materials Physics (CAMP). The centre was funded by the Danish National Research Foundation (DNRF), and as a former head of a DNRF centre, he has a unique and thorough knowledge of the purpose and work of the Foundation.

Professor Nørskov’s own research focuses on how we can develop sustainable catalysts that can be used to catalyze processes that make the production of renewable energy far more effective. On his future role as chair of the DNRF, Professor Nørskov said:

“I am looking forward to working with the Danish National Research Foundation. The foundation may be the most important single contributor to the unique reputation that Danish research has internationally, and it is crucial that the successful work of the outgoing chair continues.”

The minister of Higher Education and Science, Tommy Ahlers, has appointed Nørskov as chair. Commenting on the choice, the minister said:

“Jens Kehlet Nørskov is undoubtedly one of Denmark’s most talented researchers, and someone of whom we in Denmark must be proud. He is internationally recognized for his research and is a highly competent leader. His is a strong profile that will now be at the forefront of the Danish National Research Foundation; he will work to ensure that we produce even more fundamental breakthroughs and to maintain Denmark as a leading research nation.”