Globally Recognized Science, Purpose-Driven Innovation

Heikki Hyöty, Chairman of the Board, Cofounder, MD, Ph.D, is currently professor of virology at Tampere University. Dr. Hyöty has 35 years of experience in basic and clinical research in academia and almost 25 years of experience in biotechnology business. His expertise includes virology and immunology.

Mikael Knip, Member of the Board, Cofounder, MD, Ph.D, is emeritus professor of pediatrics at the University of Helsinki and works currently as research director at the university and the Children’s Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital. Dr. Knip has more than 40 years of experience in clinical research in academia and almost 25 years of experience in biotechnology business. His expertise includes type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, other immune-mediated diseases, and clinical trials.

Tero Välimaa, Ph.D – Chief Executive Officer, brings over 25 years of leadership experience across the pharmaceutical, surgical, and medical device industries. Throughout his career, he has successfully guided numerous products from early development to commercialization, securing funding and ensuring regulatory compliance. Under his leadership, Vactech continues to advance innovative healthcare solutions with a strong focus on scientific excellence and real-world impact.

Matias Knip, Member of the Board, M.Sc., has extensive experience in investment banking (M&A and ECM advisory) with leading Finnish advisory firms. Mr Knip is currently Chief Specialist at the Government Ownership Steering Department of the Prime Minister’s Office.

Johanna Friedman, Member of the Board, CPA, B.S.B.A., obtained her bachelor’s degree from Boston University, Questrom School of Business, in 2016. Mrs. Friedman is a Certified Public Accountant and is currently working as an Audit Manager in a large public accounting firm in the United States.

Petri Laine joined the board of Vactech in 2021. Petri is a seasoned venture capital investor with 20 years’ experience. He has works as a partner at Innovestor Ventures which manages a portfolio of approx. 90 companies in all field of technologies including life science, medtech and health. In addition to Vactech he is currently board member in six other companies. He has a degree in accounting from Finland and a degree in finance from the UK.

Jussi Lehtonen, Laboratory Chief, B.ScMr, has extensive experience in biosciences, advanced laboratory technologies, and database construction for laboratory and data analysis applications. He is also highly skilled in statistical analysis.