Professor Ole Petter Ottersen, University of Oslo, is a renowned neuroscientist and academic leader. He has done pioneering research in cellular and molecular neuroscience and his contributions to the Oslo School of Neuroanatomy, a research tradition focusing on advanced neuroanatomical techniques and brain function. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of synaptic transmission, development of neurodgenerative diseases, and the role of water channels in the brain.

Ottersen served as Rector for the University of Oslo (2009–2017) before he served as President of the Karolinska Institute in Sweden (2017–2023). Here, he championed global health, sustainability, and academic excellence. Ottersen has received numerous awards including Anders Jahre’s Award for Medical Research (2008). He is member of the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters.