The purpose of the FICAN East Scientific Working Group is to ensure the advancement of research development and clinical work integration being conducted by universities.

The working group aims to increase communication and cooperation between researchers, both in the Eastern cooperative area and on a national level, as well as promote participation in national and international collaborative projects.

The Scientific Working Group is chaired by professor Arto Mannermaa (University of Eastern Finland). The regional coordinator of FICAN East Kirsi Pylvänäinen acts as the group’s secretary.

The Scientific Working Group for 2025

University of Eastern Finland 

• Arto Mannermaa, chair   
• Merja Heinäniemi 
• Tuula Klaavuniemi 
• Outi Kuittinen 
• Anna-Liisa Levonen-Harju

Wellbeing Services County of Central Finland 

• Johanna Mrena 
• Laura Lahtinen    
• Kyösti Tahkola    
• Kirsi Pylvänäinen, secretary

South Savo Wellbeing Services County

• Vesa Kataja

Wellbeing Services County of North Savo

• Satu Tiainen