Marianne Nilsen
Dr. Nilsen, associate professor of social work at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), joins the Center for Innovation in Social Work and Health (CISWH) as a visiting scholar during the 2025–2026 academic year. Her sabbatical research focuses on three intersecting areas: gerontological social work, interdisciplinary innovation, and the integration of generative artificial intelligence in social work education.
With a background in social and community psychology and a PhD in health science—where she explored religiousness and existential well-being in secular contexts—Dr. Nilsen brings a unique lens to questions of identity, belonging, and quality of life. At CISWH, she will focus on strengthening the role of social workers in elder care in Norway, drawing inspiration from U.S. models of interdisciplinary collaboration and relational practice.
She will explore innovative approaches to social work education, initiating a collaborative effort with CISWH to advance research and pedagogical development around AI in social work. The aim is to enhance digital competencies while safeguarding critical reflection and professional integrity among future social workers.
In addition to academic research, Dr. Nilsen is launching a social enterprise—MARNOVA—designed to support adult children of elderly individuals through therapeutic and advisory services in Norway. Her work bridges theory and practice, with a strong emphasis on co-creation, pedagogical development, and international knowledge exchange.
Dr. Nilsen’s publication record spans areas such as child development, mental health promotion, and existential meaning-making. Her scholarly work reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation, drawing primarily from psychology and pedagogy, with particular emphasis on relational competence, spirituality in health, and inclusive practices for vulnerable populations. She has contributed to national and international research projects focused on psychosocial well-being, school-based mental health initiatives, and pedagogical innovation in professional education.