Poul research focuses on North Atlantic fisheries (1400–1700) and the interdisciplinary fusion of marine science and history.

Previously, he studied the impact of war on Scandinavian life (1550–1914) and have published extensively on medieval and early modern maritime culture. In Trinity College Dublin he was the founding Director of the Trinity Long Room Hub, the Arts and Humanities Research Institute.

Previously, he has been the Rector of Roskilde University and Professor at Aarhus University and the University of Southern Denmark.

He began his career as a curator at the Danish Fisheries and Maritime Museum. His contributions extend to EU-funded research councils, journal editorial boards, and prestigious fellowships.

Recognized with numerous honors, including a knighthood by the Danish Queen and the Japanese Cosmos Prize, he remains dedicated to advancing marine history and interdisciplinary scholarship.