Ida B?k Hjermitslev is an expert on coalition politics and political behaviour. She has just been selected for AAU Excellence ¨C Aalborg University's talent programme for ambitious early-career researchers with the potential to make their mark.

"Coalition politics plays a crucial role in modern, parliamentary democracies," says Ida B?k Hjermitslev.

An example of a coalition is when several political parties join forces to form a unified government. Voters should therefore not just decide which politician to vote for. They must also take into account how the parties cooperate, compete and compromise.

"This means that voters' political attitudes and identities are greatly influenced by how parties act in coalitions, which has significant implications for democratic representation and stability," she explains.

Ida B?k Hjermitslev examines how coalitions affect voters' ideological positions, political attitudes and voting behaviour. And this is a research area that is particularly relevant in a time of increasing misinformation and political polarization, she says, and adds:

"My research can help shed light on how coalitions can either dampen or intensify political tensions and polarization, which is crucial for ensuring stable and well-functioning democratic systems."

Ida B?k Hjermitslev is looking forward to developing her research management skills as part of AAU Excellence. She hopes that the talent programme will provide an opportunity to start a pilot project that can eventually develop into a larger research project.

"Being selected for AAU Excellence is a great honour and an important milestone in my career," she says.