Pia Siljander appointed as Research Director of Blood Service
Associate Professor of Biochemistry, PhD Pia Siljander has been appointed as the Research Director of the Finnish Red Cross Blood Service starting January 2, 2025. In her role, she will lead and develop the scientific research activities of the Blood Service.
Siljander has a long career in both leading research work and as a researcher, particularly in the field of platelets and their extracellular vesicles. She has an extensive experience in research funding, leading research groups, and international networking.
“Blood and its various components are a familiar and extremely interesting research world for me. I am excited and proud to work with the Blood Service team and to participate in the significant research and development of the Blood Service,” says Siljander.
The purpose of the Blood Service’s research activities is to support patient care, including future needs. The research focuses on the effectiveness of the blood supply chain, the investigation of cell and tissue compatibility, and the development of products and services.
In addition to her role as Research Director of the Blood Service, Siljander will continue for the time being as a Senior University Lecturer at the University of Helsinki, dividing her work between the two organizations. She will transition fully to the Blood Service in February 2026.
Picture by Johanna Puutio
