25 March: Prof. Laura Elo on

We develop computational data analysis tools and mathematical modelling methods for analyzing and interpreting data generated by modern high-throughput biotechnologies, such as next-generation sequencing and mass spectrometry-based proteomics. A specific focus is on biomedical applications in close collaboration with experimental and clinical groups to enable robust and reproducible interpretation of the molecular as well as clinical data. Using statistical modelling and advanced machine learning techniques, we have, for instance, identified early markers for type 1 diabetes and developed several powerful computational models for predicting disease and treatment risks. Our ultimate goal is to improve the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of complex diseases, such as diabetes and cancer.

Bio: Laura Elo is Professor of Computational Medicine and Head of Medical Bioinformatics Centre at University of Turku, Finland. She has PhD in applied mathematics and long experience in molecular systems immunology and application of machine learning in medicine. Her research group develops computational methods to interpret molecular and clinical data in several research projects (e.g. ERC). In 2019 she received the L’Oréal-UNESCO International Rising Talent Award. She has published >130 research articles and several software packages and is member of various boards.

Chair: Merja Heinäniemi