Heli Skottman

I joined Tampere University in 2005 having worked as a postdoctoral research fellow in Karolinska Institute, Sweden and University of Turku, Finland.  I hold M.Sc. in applied zoology and a Ph.D. in molecular animal biotechnology in University of Eastern Finland. In addition, I have educated myself in Turku School of Economics (studies in biobusiness program), Finland; University pedagogic studies and Study Programme in Administration and Management of Higher Education, Tampere University, Finland.

I'm currently Professor in Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, group leader and responsible professor for Master of Science in Cell Technology program since 2015 including supervision of MSc students. I have over 20 years’ experience on human pluripotent stem cells. Last 18 years my focus with the research group has been in eye research targeting already from the early phases of research towards clinical applications in ophthalmology. In addition, I have gained experience on intellectual property strategy, licensing of research findings and establishment of spin-off companies. I have co-authored over 10 patent applications and over 130 peer reviewed scientific publications in area of biotechnology and human stem cell research.  It has been my privilege to supervised over 10 PhDs, several of them with highest grade and receiving awards for the high-quality PhD. In 2010, I received Academy of Finland Award for scientific courage, award granted to researchers who have shown exceptional scientific audacity, creativity or innovation in their work. In 2019, I received Pirkanmaa Palkinto award for pioneering medical innovations together with Dr. Anni Mörö, Scandinavian Society for Biomaterial research award 2019 and Aamulehti Valo award 2021 for the significant research work that has contributed to increase wellbeing and success in Pirkanmaa region. All these achievements would not have been possible without the past and present research group members.