The Science Foundation's grants 2025 have been announced

The foundation's grants represent an investment in cutting-edge Finnish research.

"We support projects that have the potential to revolutionize medical technologies and improve patient diagnostics and treatment in the future," says Petri Bono, Chairman of the Board of the Instrumentarium Science Foundation.

The Instrufoundation Fellow grant, the foundation’s most prestigious award, is granted to two researchers, each receiving €150,000.

• Dr. Joonas Iivanainen (Aalto University) is developing a portable and cost-effective measurement device utilizing quantum sensors for precise and painless monitoring of muscle function. This technology could enhance the diagnosis and monitoring of neuromuscular diseases without invasive hospital procedures, enabling faster and easier treatment planning.
  
  
• Dr. Mikael Marttinen (Tampere University) is investigating how gene regulatory networks influence brain cell activity and the development of neurological diseases. By combining cutting-edge technology, including single-cell analysis, spatial mapping, and AI modeling, his research aims to uncover disease mechanisms more precisely, paving the way for more targeted treatments for brain disorders.

New technologies for heart health monitoring

The SILMU grant, worth €50,000 each, is awarded to two startups focused on scientific innovation and entrepreneurship.

MoniCardi Oy is developing next-generation ECG analytics, bringing clinical-grade heart monitoring to both consumers and healthcare professionals. The company's patented technology enables early detection of heart diseases, risk assessment, and performance optimization without expensive hospital tests. The analytics work with both ECG devices and consumer heart rate monitors, allowing continuous and accurate heart monitoring. The technology has already been integrated into Suunto's ZoneSense product, offering groundbreaking applications in medical diagnostics.

AIATELLA Oy is developing an AI tool to enhance early detection of cardiovascular diseases, such as strokes, in ultrasound imaging. The software automates imaging measurements and analysis, speeding up diagnosis and reducing human error. This innovation helps doctors make more precise assessments and improves treatment outcomes for patients.

New funding for blood disease research

Last year, the Instrumentarium Science Foundation received a significant bequest, which led to the establishment of the Anja and Matti Koskenoja Fund. This fund supports research and development in blood disease treatments, and in 2025, it awards its first grant.

Dr. Kim Daehong (University of Helsinki) receives €50,000 for his research on graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in allogeneic stem cell transplantation. This phenomenon weakens treatment outcomes for leukemia and other blood cancers. His research aims to better understand the mechanisms of GVHD, potentially leading to more effective treatments and improved prognosis for blood cancer patients.

Extensive support for young researchers

The foundation has also awarded 13 postdoctoral grants for young researchers participating in international research projects and 17 doctoral grants to PhD candidates from various universities.