In memory of Eva Nissen (1950–2026)

Eva’s research focused primarily on the interaction between mother and child and on breastfeeding. By combining physiological and behavioural science perspectives, she made a groundbreaking contribution to knowledge in this field. Through international collaborations, she made a significant impact. In one of her final research projects in Uganda, carried out in collaboration with researchers from Uganda, the USA and Sweden, the group implemented skin-to-skin contact during the baby’s first hour after birth. This work has helped to improve the care of newborns and their mothers.

Eva was also deeply committed to education and academic leadership, including as programme director for the study programme in midwifery at Karolinska Institutet. Eva had a clear sense of justice and strong integrity. She was modest and down-to-earth. She dared to stand up for what she believed in and made a difference both in her professional life and in her interactions with others. As a professor and supervisor, she was deeply committed to her doctoral students and also supported other supervisors’ doctoral students and younger researchers.

Eva Nissen generously shared her knowledge and will be remembered with warmth, respect and gratitude. She will be deeply missed by all her friends and colleagues at KI.
 

Anna Hjelmstedt, Former Senior Lecturer at the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health

Kristin Svensson, Affiliated to Research at the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health

Wibke Jonas, Docent the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health