Using large-scale data to improve pregnancy drug safety
Viktor H. Ahlqvist is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Karolinska Institutet, having joined in 2026 after previous research at Aarhus University in Denmark. His work focuses on pregnancy drug safety—an area where evidence is often lacking, as pregnant individuals are frequently excluded from clinical trials.

Using large-scale data and advanced analytical methods, he aims to generate reliable answers more quickly. Driven by the real uncertainty faced by patients and clinicians, his research seeks to build scalable frameworks that can improve decision-making and strengthen clinical practice.
What made you decide to join KI?
"KI is a leading environment in epidemiology, with a particularly strong tradition in perinatal research. My work spans multiple disciplines and requires both depth and breadth, which KI offers. Combined with a genuinely supportive environment, trusted colleagues and a clear ambition to make a real impact, it felt like the natural long-term home for my research."
How did you experience the recruitment process at KI?
"The process was rigorous and highly competitive, but also transparent and well-structured. I appreciated the thoughtful evaluation of both strengths and limitations, it felt balanced rather than one-sided. That level of care reflects a strong and mature research culture."
What strengths do you see in KI’s research environment?
"What stands out is the combination of legacy and forward momentum. KI combines deep expertise with openness to new ideas, methods and collaboration. Its clear focus on medical research creates strong alignment, enabling sharper thinking and cohesive teamwork. Together with a supportive, well-connected research culture, it creates an environment where it is possible to develop ambitious research programmes."
What do you hope to contribute during your time as an Assistant Professor at KI?
"I aim to advance pregnancy drug safety by shifting from fragmented evidence to robust, scalable approaches that inform real clinical decisions. By leveraging new data and methods, I hope to help build systematic, collaborative frameworks that can be widely applied in practice."
Personal facts
Name: Viktor H. Ahlqvist
Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Research area: Pregnancy drug safety
Starting date as Assistant Professor: 1 May 2026
Previous workplace(s): Aarhus University (Denmark)
