Arja Halkoaho appointed as Finland’s first Professor of Practice in P4 medicine
Arja Halkoaho, who will soon take up the position of Professor of Practice at Tampere Universities – a higher education community comprising Tampere University and TAMK – leads a research group at TAMK. In her new role, she will also advance education and research on P4 medicine within the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology at Tampere University. P4 medicine refers to predictive, preventive, personalised and participatory medicine.
Arja Halkoaho holds a PhD in health sciences and currently works as a Principal Lecturer at TAMK. She also holds a docentship at the University of Eastern Finland. Halkoaho specialises in ethical issues in healthcare and the use of genomic data. She will work closely with both the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology at Tampere University and with TAMK to advance research and teaching in these areas.
“Generating new knowledge for healthcare requires not only listening to citizens but also strengthening expertise among healthcare professionals. This participatory element is central to P4 medicine, which combines predictive, preventive and personalised approaches,” says Halkoaho.
"I am especially looking forward to building a robust research and development platform that connects expertise across Tampere Universities with the needs of healthcare practice. My new role is also an opportunity to enhance societal impact, as promoting health not only involves clinical work but also represents a broader societal mission,” she adds.
The professorship will focus on the following areas within P4 education and research:
- Multidisciplinary collaboration between Tampere University and TAMK to ensure research and teaching are mutually supportive.
- Participatory methods that involve students, professionals and citizens in the development of solutions.
- Educational renewal, so future professionals understand the principles of P4 medicine and can apply them in practice. This calls for close collaboration with the healthcare sector.
According to Professor Mika Hannula, President of Tampere University of Applied Sciences, the professorship opens up new opportunities for research collaboration both within Tampere Universities and on an international scale.
“The establishment of this position is a new initiative that will strengthen our higher education community and foster collaboration between the two universities. Arja Halkoaho brings to the role her excellent track record in research as well as the depth of experience expected of all Professors of Practice,” notes Hannula.
Keijo Hämäläinen, President of Tampere University, also emphasises the important role of the new professorship in promoting national and international collaboration.
“This professorship is an investment in the future of healthcare. It integrates research, education and practical expertise to enhance the quality of care and societal impact. In addition, it will reinforce Tampere University’s position as an internationally recognised leader in health technology and medical innovation,” says Hämäläinen.
Arja Halkoaho will assume her new role on 1 January 2026 for a five-year term.
Enquiries
Arja Halkoaho
arja.halkoaho [at] tuni.fi (arja[dot]halkoaho[at]tuni[dot]fi)
Tel. +358 406603307
Mika Hannula
mika.hannula [at] tuni.fi (mika[dot]hannula[at]tuni[dot]fi)
+358 294531838
