By Astrid Helene Mortensen & Niels Landbo Krogh, AAU Communication & Public Affairs. Photo: Emil Kragborg Eriksen

Security of supply and flexibility in the energy sector have been two key themes throughout Professor Birgitte Bak-Jensen’s research career - work for which she has now been honored with the Knight’s Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog.

Through her research on intelligent power grids and the integration of renewable energy Bak-Jensen has helped shape the technical infrastructure behind the green transition. With her efforts, she has translated complex systems into practice and created value for society.

On Thursday, November 13, Birgitte Bak-Jensen was congratulated by Rector Per Michael Johansen at AAU INNOVATE.

We spoke with the Professor after she had also received praise from the rector.

How does it feel to receive such an honor?

“It’s wonderful news, and I’m both happy and proud to have been able to contribute to society in a way that has led to such recognition.”

As a young aspiring researcher, did you ever imagine you would one day receive an honor like this?

“Certainly not. I grew up on a farm, where earning a high-school diploma was considered something special in itself. As far as I’ve been told, I was the eighth person in the village to do so. When I started as a PhD student, it was out of pure interest, not to gain honors. Over time, my research has developed and become both relevant and applicable.”

Is there anything you would like to say to others who aspire to make a difference through their research?

“The most important thing is what you have to contribute. It is an honor in itself when your work can be used by others, and you can see a future where your research will be applied. That it also leads to an appointment as Knight of the Dannebrog is a beautiful distinction — but I would have done the work regardless.”

A research career with societal impact

The Knight’s Cross recognizes not only an impressive research career, but also a lifelong commitment to transforming knowledge into value for society.

Birgitte Bak-Jensen is a role model for both students and colleagues, and her work demonstrates how perseverance can pave the way for innovation