Jonas Zimmerman is a researcher at the Centre for Disaster Medicine and a physician with a strong commitment to Ukraine. We asked him three questions about: challenges in his research field, important projects he is working on, and what inspired him to start researching disaster medicine.
We asked him what inspired him to begin researching disaster medicine.
“I have long been involved in global issues and humanitarian work, but it was only through hands-on efforts in war-affected areas – particularly in Ukraine – that I realised how crucial knowledge of disaster medicine is, both for saving lives and for building sustainable healthcare systems in unstable environments. The strong link between medicine, security policy, and societal resilience inspired me to pursue academic work in the field.”
What challenges do you foresee in your research field going forward?
“A central challenge is bridging the gap between civilian and military actors in disaster and conflict situations – both in theory and in practice. There is also a significant need for standardised training and structures to handle complex injury scenarios and mass casualty situations. Especially in a time when the threat landscape is evolving rapidly (e.g. drone warfare, AI, and hybrid threats).”
Are you currently working on any projects that feel particularly important?
“Yes, several! Together with the WHO’s EMT (Emergency Medical Teams) initiative, I’m leading a joint project to develop guidelines and standards for medical civil-military collaboration in disaster and conflict scenarios. It feels incredibly meaningful to contribute to this important work with global impact, helping to create better conditions for coordinated care even in challenging circumstances.”
”In another project, we’re analysing key lessons for Sweden’s total defence following the disaster drill ‘Övning LIV 2025’ at Northern Älvsborg County Hospital, where we tested the healthcare system’s capacity to manage sudden mass casualty incidents with major trauma outcomes.”
”Another ongoing effort involves analysing the Ukrainian trauma care chain – from the point of injury at the front line, through evacuation via trauma stabilisation points, to final treatment and rehabilitation in hospitals. The project is being conducted during ongoing war, and this type of data and experience is extremely rare and incredibly valuable both scientifically and practically.”
Text: Vendela Holmberg
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