Nilsson: A Distinguished Career in Greek Studies
The academic journey of Nilsson is marked by a steadfast commitment to the study of Greek language and culture, spanning prestigious institutions across Europe. From early doctoral research to leading international research institutes, her career reflects a deep expertise in both classical and modern Greek scholarship.
Academic Foundations and Early Career
Nilsson began her professional trajectory at the University of Gothenburg, where she earned her Ph.D. in 2001. Following her doctoral studies, she expanded her research horizons as a postdoctoral researcher at the Freie Universität Berlin from 2002 to 2004.
In 2004, she transitioned into faculty roles, starting as an assistant professor at Uppsala University. Her early career was further distinguished by her time as a Pro futura fellow—a prestigious fellowship designed to support promising young researchers—at the Swedish Collegium for Advanced Study between 2006 and 2010. During this period, she was appointed as an Associate Professor in 2007.
Professional Advancement and Leadership
By 2010, Nilsson achieved the rank of Professor of Greek at Uppsala University, cementing her position as a leader in her field. Her influence extended internationally through an adjunct professorship at the University of Oslo from 2016 to 2017, where she contributed to the Department of Philosophy, Classics, History of Art and Ideas.
From the start of 2019 through the end of 2021, Nilsson served as the director of the Swedish Research Institute in Istanbul, overseeing critical research initiatives in a region central to Greek and Byzantine history.
Beyond her teaching and administrative roles, she contributed significantly to academic publishing, serving as the editor of the scholarly journal Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies until 2025.
Key Facts
- Ph.D. Institution: University of Gothenburg (2001).
- Primary Professorship: Professor of Greek at Uppsala University since 2010.
- International Leadership: Director of the Swedish Research Institute in Istanbul (2019–2021).
- Editorial Role: Editor of Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies until 2025.
- Fellowship: Pro futura fellow at the Swedish Collegium for Advanced Study (2006–2010).
Career Timeline Summary
| Period | Role/Position | Institution |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Ph.D. Recipient | University of Gothenburg |
| 2002–2004 | Postdoctoral Researcher | Freie Universität Berlin |
| 2004 | Assistant Professor | Uppsala University |
| 2006–2010 | Pro futura fellow | Swedish Collegium for Advanced Study |
| 2007 | Associate Professor | Swedish Collegium for Advanced Study |
| 2010 | Professor of Greek | Uppsala University |
| 2016–2017 | Adjunct Professor | University of Oslo |
| 2019–2021 | Director | Swedish Research Institute in Istanbul |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Nilsson obtain her doctorate?
Nilsson received her Ph.D. from the University of Gothenburg in 2001.
Which journal did Nilsson edit?
She served as the editor of the journal Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies until 2025.
What leadership role did she hold in Istanbul?
Nilsson was the director of the Swedish Research Institute in Istanbul from the beginning of 2019 until the end of 2021.
At which university is she a Professor of Greek?
She has been a Professor of Greek at Uppsala University since 2010.
Did she hold any positions in Norway?
Yes, she was an adjunct professor at the University of Oslo's Department of Philosophy, Classics, History of Art and Ideas from 2016 to 2017.