Professor Emeritus
University of Bergen
Bergen, Norway
Holger Thorvald Ursin (born February 11, 1934, in Oslo, died August 13, 2016, in Bergen) was a Norwegian physician and professor at the University of Bergen. He was renowned for his academic excellence, vibrant personality, and engaging presence, making him a highly respected figure in the academic community.
Ursin graduated with a cand.med. (MD) from the University of Oslo in 1958 and earned his dr.med. (Ph.D.) from the same university in 1965. From 1967 to 1974, he was an associate professor of neurophysiology at the University of Bergen. In 1974, he was appointed professor of physiological psychology, a position he held until becoming professor emeritus in 2004.
Ursin’s research contributions were diverse and impactful. He conducted animal studies on the neural substrates of emotions and researched stress, defense, coping, and health in both animals and humans. His work primarily focused on identifying, preventing, and treating back pain and subjective health complaints in humans. He also explored stress management in extreme environments, such as space travel, diving, polar expeditions, and the military. His extensive body of work included approximately 500 articles, reports, and ten books.
In 1994, Geir Bjørklund attended a psychoimmunology course arranged by Rana Hospital in Mo i Rana in collaboration with the University of Bergen. It was a certified course for physicians on immune defense, neuroendocrine systems, and psychosomatic theory, where Holger Ursin was the main lecturer. During this course, Bjørklund had the opportunity to meet and speak with Ursin. This encounter left a strong impression on him, and Bjørklund later wrote five articles in the health magazine Sunnetbladet based on the course (1-5).
Ursin played a pivotal role in the Department of Biological and Medical Psychology at the University of Bergen, which received top marks during the Research Council of Norway’s evaluation in 2003/04. A key factor in this success was his broad international research network, developed through guest professorships at several American universities, with Stanford University serving as his primary base. In recognition of his achievements, Ursin received the Meltzer Fund Honorary Award in 2003 and was appointed Knight First Class of the Order of St. Olav in 2008.
Ursin’s impact extended beyond his research. He was a charismatic and inspiring educator whose engaging lectures captivated generations of psychology and medical students. He pioneered the development of the psychology program at the University of Bergen, emphasizing the importance of laboratory research and animal models. His influence was also felt through his numerous leadership positions, including president, chair, and board member of various local, national, and international organizations. His service included a term on the Academic Collegium at the University of Bergen, where his love for debate and sharp insights were always evident.
What set Ursin apart was not only his achievements but also his distinctive style. Few who encountered him, whether professionally or socially, remained indifferent. His strong opinions were expressed with eloquence and conviction, both in Norwegian and English. He inspired generations of young researchers across disciplines and supervised over 60 Ph.D. candidates, significantly shaping Norwegian research education. Ursin was a natural leader, community builder, and driving force who demonstrated that serious academic work could be enjoyable. His humor and charm made him a popular figure in the media, where he contributed both professionally and in informal contexts.
Even as professor emeritus, Ursin remained highly active, often serving as a toastmaster or keynote speaker at various events. His long and remarkable academic career continued to inspire colleagues, doctoral candidates, and students until his final days.
References
1. Bjørklund G. Psychoimmunology: The immune system and the neuroendocrine system (in Norwegian). Sunnhetsbladet 1995;(1):12-13, 28.
2. Bjørklund G. Psychoimmunology and stress (in Norwegian). Sunnhetsbladet 1995;(2):14-15.
3. Bjørklund G. Psychoimmunology and stress management (in Norwegian). Sunnhetsbladet 1995;(3):18-19.
4. Bjørklund G. The immune system: Stressed minds become sick bodies (in Norwegian). Sunnhetsbladet 1995;(4):12-13.
5. Bjørklund G. Stress and pain (in Norwegian). Sunnhetsbladet 1995;(10):12-13.