THL’s Expertise Strengthens in Kuopio – Microbiology Laboratory Operations Relocated from Helsinki
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has transferred its microbiology laboratory operations from Helsinki to Kuopio at the beginning of the year. This move further strengthens Kuopio’s already significant research and laboratory cluster, where THL has long maintained strong water quality and water research expertise.
With the reorganization, the laboratories for immunology, bacteriology and virology have now been centralized in Kuopio. Nearly 20 new employees or staff transferred from Helsinki have started working in the newly built and refurbished laboratory facilities.
A Smooth Move Despite Its Complexity
According to Maria Valkonen, Head of THL’s Microbiology Laboratory, the relocation has progressed successfully despite the demanding nature of the project:
“The move has gone well, and most of the analytical work is already underway. It’s not a simple task to relocate large numbers of sensitive laboratory instruments,” Valkonen notes.
New facilities were created by combining existing laboratory spaces and repurposing former THL premises. The main move was carried out in January, and equipment commissioning began in February.
A Growing Competence Hub – New Opportunities for Collaboration
Kuopio has long been known for its strong educational and research foundation in health sciences. Centralizing THL’s laboratory operations in the city further reinforces this position and opens new possibilities for regional and national collaboration.
THL’s Kuopio office is located immediately adjacent to the campuses of the University of Eastern Finland and the Savonia University of Applied Sciences, as well as numerous companies operating in the area—providing excellent conditions for joint projects and innovation.
THL as a Founding Member of Kuopio Water Cluster
THL is one of the founding members of the Kuopio Water Cluster, actively contributing to the development of water research and collaboration between research organizations and industry. With the new laboratory functions now in place, Kuopio’s role as a national hub for water expertise and microbiological research is further strengthened.
