Meet your colleague: Ellen Boldrup Tingleff

Can you tell us about your work?

In general, my work spans research, development, and teaching.

My research centers on the experiences of relatives of people in psychiatric care. I examine how they interact with the psychiatric treatment system, their everyday lives and challenges, and how we can significantly improve the support they receive and their involvement in care and treatment. To explore these issues, I use a variety of methods, including qualitative studies, surveys, literature reviews and the development of interventions.

How long have you worked at SDU?

I joined SDU in 2016 as a PhD student at the Department of Clinical Research, later continuing in a postdoctoral position.

Today, I’m based at the Forensic Mental Health Research Unit in Middelfart, part of the Department of Regional Health Research.

What’s the very best thing about your job?

I am someone who thrives on interaction – and I don’t see research as a solitary endeavour.

That’s why, for me, the best part of the job is the collaboration with students and colleagues.

Another great aspect is the variety. No two weeks are alike. In any given week, I might be teaching or supervising students at different levels, collaborating on research with colleagues in Denmark and abroad, or contributing to development projects in clinical settings.

On top of that, I often work across multiple locations during the week, which keeps things dynamic.

Tell us about a work project you’re particularly proud of.

I’m proud to have contributed significantly to building knowledge in Denmark about what it means to be a relative of someone involved in the forensic psychiatric treatment system.

This group has long been overlooked in both clinical practice and research. We are now using these insights to develop interventions that provide better support for relatives in their role and ensure they are more actively involved in treatment – something they themselves have clearly asked for.

The project has been made possible by a grant from the Independent Research Fund Denmark.

What is your educational background – and how did you end up in this role?

I hold a professional bachelor’s degree in nursing and later completed a master’s degree in nursing science (cand.cur) at Aarhus University.

Before entering academia full-time, I spent more than ten years teaching at the nursing programme at UCL in Vejle.

Today, I divide my time equally between the Forensic Psychiatric Research Unit in Middelfart at the Department of Regional Health Research, SDU, and the Psychiatric Department in Middelfart, part of Mental Health Services in the Region of Southern Denmark.

It was during my time at UCL that I met my current research supervisor, who encouraged me to pursue a PhD. We began a joint development and research project in clinical practice, which gave me the confidence to take the next step into a research career.

Have you considered any other career paths?

I once considered studying psychology, but at 19 or 20, a university degree felt a little out of reach.

Looking back, it’s probably no coincidence that my interest in psychology eventually led me to focus on psychiatry – both clinically and in my research as a nurse.

What do you do in your free time?

I spend most of my free time with my family, but I also enjoy running and taking part in jumping fitness classes.

Lately, I’ve started playing golf – a sport that really puts both my concentration and patience to the test!

Have you read/watched/listened to anything good lately that you’d recommend?

The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline.

What’s your favourite destination for a day out or trip?

Austria – for skiing.

Do you have a special talent that others might not know about?

I danced all through my childhood and teenage years. Everything from ballroom and Latin to ballet, rock’n’roll and Irish step dancing – you name it!

Do you have an interesting or unusual hobby you’d like to share?

I’m not sure it qualifies as unusual, but I’ve always been deeply curious about other cultures. That curiosity has inspired me to travel widely and to seek out authentic experiences – to understand what everyday life is really like wherever I go. It’s taken me to places like a mountain tribe in northern Thailand, and through my family in Australia, I’ve gained valuable insights into Indigenous culture.

When holidaying in Europe with my family, I always try to explore the hidden corners – the places no other tourists seem to find. I’m always on the lookout for good local tips!