Troels Lillebæk

Research area

Research focuses on tuberculosis (TB), mycobacteria, and molecular biology, with particular emphasis on the molecular epidemiology of infectious diseases. A central research interest is the use of whole genome sequencing techniques on mycobacteria. The aim is to ensure that molecular epidemiology contributes meaningfully to national and global health by identifying transmission patterns and supporting evidence-based disease control strategies.

At Statens Serum Institut, this work is carried out in close collaboration with Global Health Section at the University of Copenhagen (link). By applying advanced molecular methods, including whole genome sequencing, the research maps transmission dynamics on both national and international scales. These insights are translated into actionable guidance that strengthens TB and mycobacteria control efforts nationally and globally.

This research integrates laboratory-based data with extensive national health registries. Denmark hosts some of the world's oldest and most comprehensive TB and mycobacteria registries, with TB mortality records from Danish cities dating back to 1876. The team also maintains a unique strain collection and databank dating back to 1936, providing an exceptional foundation for epidemiological research.

Collaboration is fundamental to this work, with numerous projects conducted in partnership with international institutions, including the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Supervision and training constitute another important part of the research activities, encompassing previous and ongoing mentorship of 14 PhD students as well as MPH graduates and postdoctoral researchers. 

Professional roles

Director of the International Reference Laboratory of Mycobacteriology (IRLM), which provides laboratory-based diagnostics, surveillance, and research on tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacteria for Denmark, Greenland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands.

Serves as a national and international expert in several key forums, including the WHO Supranational Reference Laboratory Network (SRLN), the ECDC European Reference Laboratory TB Network (ERLTBnet), as well as the European Society of Mycobacteriology (ESM, President and Steering Committee member), and the Danish National Tuberculosis Group.

Clinical work as Consultant ID-specialist in the Infectious Diseases Outpatient Clinic at Zealand University Hospital Roskilde.

Publikationer

Updated publication list