Maj Hansen appointed professor of trauma psychology at SDU

About the professorship

Maj Hansen has been appointed professor of trauma psychology at the Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark.

Her research focuses on how people are psychologically affected after traumatic experiences – with particular emphasis on violence, abuse and relational trauma. Among other things, she investigates how to best diagnose, treat and prevent trauma – both for those directly affected, their relatives and the professionals who support them. Her goal is to improve the help available and reduce inequality in access to support.

The professorship aims to promote a better understanding of trauma through practice-oriented research and to strengthen collaboration with both Danish and international partners. Maj Hansen leads the research group THRIVE and is currently involved in several projects, including in collaboration with the Danish Centres for Victims of Rape and the Danish Children’s Houses.

The current projects are carried out in close collaboration with colleagues from the department: Maria Hardeberg Bach, Nina Beck Hansen, Tonny Andersen and Ida Haahr-Pedersen.

Academic background

Maj Hansen holds a Master’s degree in Psychology from Aarhus University and obtained her PhD in 2014. She has spent many years researching trauma and has contributed to the development of new insights and methods that benefit both practice and society.

She is a key figure in the clinical track of the psychology programme, which she has co-led for several years with colleagues such as Mette Elmose. She also plays an active role in committees, networks and editorial work.

Institutional affiliation

The professorship is based at the Department of Psychology at SDU.

Maj Hansen has been affiliated with the department since 2010, when it was newly established, and has since left her mark on both research and teaching.

The appointment took effect in 2025.