Evaluation Report Publications of the Academy of Finland 1/11

Research networking and interaction
Collaborations are essential for the unit, especially because the research profile is 
unique in Finland. There are joint projects with groups in other European countries, 
but the unit’s visibility could be further enhanced. The establishment of a national 
graduate school is a great merit for the unit and supports the mobility of PhD 
students. However, the recruitment of senior researchers, lecturers and postdoctoral 
researchers still shows a strong preference to stay at the same university.
Recommendations
The unit should continue its interesting research on nucleic acids and radiochemistry. 
The pro-drug strategy for nucleotide phosphoesters is attractive, but should be directed 
more at pharmaceutical and medical applications. The radiochemistry group is an 
essential and vital partner for the PET Centre at UTU. Synergies with similar research 
at UH should be highlighted. The perspective of the personnel structure of the nucleic 
acid unit should be discussed within the next months. The panel strongly recommends 
open calls for all senior positions, which should be published internationally.