Know Your Colleague: Torben Knudsen

By SUND Kommunikation, sund-input@health.sdu.dk, 1/9/2025

Can you explain what your work involves?

I am a consultant and clinical professor specialising in medical gastroenterology at Esbjerg Hospital, focusing on the digestive system and organs such as the liver and bile ducts.

Since 2009, I have served as the coordinating head of research at the Department of Regional Health Research in Esbjerg.

Recently, I was appointed associate programme director of medicine, with a particular focus on its development in Esbjerg. I have also been a key driving force in establishing the current regional medical education programme in the city

How long have you been working at SDU?

After earning my master’s degree, I worked at the pharmacology institute from 1988 to 1991 as a "candidate fellow," as the position was called at the time. During this period, I conducted research that laid the foundation for both my PhD and, later, my doctoral thesis.

Since 2009, I have been a coordinating head of research at the Department of Regional Health Research (IRS).

What is the very best part about your job?

I truly enjoy working at the intersection of clinical practice and research.

I also see it as both a privilege and an exciting responsibility to prepare our students for their future roles as doctors and to guide newly graduated doctors as they begin their careers.

Could you share a work task you've completed that you're particularly proud of?

I find it impossible to choose between advancing my medical specialty in Esbjerg and shaping the medical education here—both have been defining milestones in my career.

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

Ever since I was a boy, I’ve known I wanted to be a doctor. This clear goal led me to take the traditional route from high school straight to medical school at university.

What other career paths have you considered?

I briefly considered studying political science in high school, but my childhood dream of becoming a doctor ultimately took priority.

What do you do in your spare time?

I do my best to pursue my interests in chess, football, and history.

At the same time, I am fortunate to have a wonderful family that also deserves my focus and attention.

Have you seen/read/listened to anything good recently that you would recommend?

I recently re-read Fiskerne by Hans Kirk. I absolutely recommend it.

What is your favorite place to visit?

Odense Stadium.

Do you have any special talents that others might not know about?

I consider myself quite a good cook. I particularly enjoy taking on the role of grill master during the summer and preparing slow-cooked dishes during the colder winter months.

Do you have an unusual hobby or interest we should hear about?

It might be more nerdy than unusual, but I have an almost obsessive fascination with all things related to World War II.

My interest stems from two key influences: my grandparents, who lived through the German occupation in Odense and shared vivid stories of their experiences, and an inspiring history teacher I had in school. Together, they sparked my enduring passion for this period of history.