She is known in particular for her work on the Roman triumph, and is an expert selected by the Swedish Research Council for inclusion in AcademiaNet.

She is a Full Professor in the field of Classical Archaeology and Ancient History at the Department of Historical Studies at the University of Gothenburg.

[6] Östenberg is included in AcademiaNet, the Expert Database for Outstanding Female Academics, following nomination by the Swedish Research Council for meeting the project's criteria of outstanding academic qualifications and independent leadership activities.

[4][1] Östenberg is a frequent contributor to Svenska Dagbladet, writing principally on how ancient literature and culture can influence the modern world, including what can be learnt from experiences of the past,[7] and other publications, bringing historical perspectives to modern discourse.

[8][9] In 2018, Östenberg received the Stora historiepriset (Great History Prize) for using historical perspectives in modern social and political debates through her academic and journalism work.