— I’m really looking forward to this exciting job. It’s fun to try something new and be able to influence development in the research field of andrology, in which I myself have worked for more than 40 years.

At the same time, the assignment feels like a kind of ‘seal of approval’ for our reproductive medicine activities at Lund University and Region Skåne. In our clinic as well as in research, we have developed a concept where both the female and male partners in infertile couples receive the same attention. Traditionally, the focus has been on the woman. The concept is also fundamental to the Öresund collaboration we’re conducting within ReproUnion, which has become a strong brand internationally – and certainly also contributed to someone from this particular region being offered the opportunity to become the co-editor of Andrology.

What kind of journal is Andrology?

— Andrology is currently the world’s foremost andrological journal. Two andrological organisations are behind the journal – the European Academy of Andrology and the American Society of Andrology.

The journal covers the experimental, epidemiological and clinical aspects of andrology, which traditionally focuses on the male aspects of such issues as infertility, testosterone deficiency, sexual dysfunction and infections of the urogenital system.

What does your job as co-editor entail?

— For many years now I have been associate editor of Andrology, and the new role entails a continued deepening of that job – but with more work moving forward and a greater responsibility than before. I will hold this position for two years, until 1 January 2024, when I’ll take over as the magazine’s editor-in-chief.

One of the main tasks of an editor is to be involved in developing and implementing strategies to increase the journal’s impact and to ensure that there is an opportunity for researchers to publish quality research. Andrology also serves as a forum for research and publications from the members of the two andrological organisations behind the journal. The backing of these two organisations is also advantageous because it benefits research in this area. My ambition is to strengthen Andrology’s role not only in the field of andrology, but in the entire field of reproductive medicine, in terms of both the quality and impact of the journal.

A co-editor is responsible for the first culling process of the manuscripts, so my new position will involve a great deal of reading and making quick decisions. I’ll also gain excellent insights into what’s going on in the field of andrological research.

What is happening right now in the field of reproduction?

— Right now there is a growing interest in reproductive medicine and men’s health in a broader perspective. There’s more focus on lifestyle and environmental factors on sperm quality, as well as the link between male infertility and the risk of serious diseases such as cancer, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. In recent years there has also been a greater focus on how not only maternal but also paternal factors such as age, medication, and cancer can have an impact on their children’s health.